Microplastics contamination in the green mussels (Perna viridis) cultured for human consumption in Thailand

Recent trends in the aquaculture industry have introduced massive quantities of microplastics (MPs). This study investigated the MPs contamination in green mussel (Perna viridis) farms located on the east (Sriracha Bay) and west (Phetchaburi) sides of the Gulf of Thailand. The abundance and characteristics of MPs were determined by Nile Red tagging while polymer composition was determined by micro-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. MPs were detected in water, sediments, and mussels with 100% detection frequency. The average abundance of MPs in water, sediments, and green mussels at Sriracha Bay was 41.5 +/- 6.0 particles/L, 474.6 +/- 102.6 items/kg, and 3.2 +/- 1.6 items/individual, respectively while it was lower at Phetchaburi. Fragments were dominant morphotype while high-density polyethylene was the dominant polymer. No significant difference was found between the young and older mussels while a significant difference was observed in mussels between the two farms. Policies should be implemented to reduce the MPs contamination in aquaculture environments.

Automated summary

Recent trends in aquaculture have resulted in significant contamination of microplastics (MPs). This study examined the presence of MPs in green mussels farms located in different parts of the Gulf of Thailand. MPs were detected in water, sediments, and mussels with a 100% detection frequency. The abundance of MPs was higher in Sriracha Bay compared to Phetchaburi. Fragmented particles were the most common type, with high-density polyethylene being the dominant polymer. Age did not significantly affect the MPs content in mussels, but there was a significant difference between farms.