Microplastic sampling techniques in freshwaters and sediments: a review

Pollution by microplastics is of increasing concern due to their ubiquitous presence in most biological and environmental media, their potential toxicity and their ability to carry other contaminants. Knowledge on microplastics in freshwaters is still in its infancy. Here we reviewed 150 investigations to identify the common methods and tools for sampling microplastics, waters and sediments in freshwater ecosystems. Manta trawls are the main sampling tool for microplastic separation from surface water, whereas shovel, trowel, spade, scoop and spatula are the most frequently used devices in microplastic studies of sediments. Van Veen grab is common for deep sediment sampling. There is a need to develop optimal methods for reducing identification time and effort and to detect smaller-sized plastic particles.

Automated summary

Common methods and tools for sampling microplastics in freshwater ecosystems include using Manta trawls for surface water and shovel, trowel, spade, scoop, and spatula for sediments, with Van Veen grab commonly used for deep sediment sampling. There is a need to develop optimal methods to reduce identification time and effort, and to detect smaller-sized plastic particles.