Microplastic distribution, abundance, and composition in the sediments, water, and fishes of the Red and Mediterranean seas, Egypt

This study records the extent of microplastics (MPs) in the surface water, sediments, and fishes of the Mediterranean and Red seas in Egypt. In sediment and water samples, the Ras Gharib station in the Red sea and Damietta and Port Said stations in the Mediterranean sea exhibited the highest microplastic abundance, while the lowest concentration was found in the Ain Sukhna station in the Red Sea and Marsa Matruh station in the Mediterranean sea. Rayon and polyethylene terephthalate were the most frequently found polymers in fishes. The results highlighted the abundant existence of microplastics in sediments, water, and fishes of the Mediterranean and Red seas, thereby improving our understanding of the environmental risks posed by microplastics to fisheries and marine ecosystems and the need for measures to diminish the flux of plastics to the marine settings.

Automated summary

This study reveals a significant presence of microplastics in the surface water, sediments, and fishes of the Mediterranean and Red seas in Egypt. Higher microplastic abundance was observed at the Ras Gharib station in the Red sea and Damietta and Port Said stations in the Mediterranean sea. Additionally, the study emphasizes the need for measures to reduce plastic influx into marine settings to protect fisheries and marine ecosystems.