Occurrence of microplastics in fishes from two landing sites in Tuticorin, South east coast of India

Microplastics pollution of the marine environment has been reported worldwide. Here, we investigate the occurrence of microplastics in two species of fishes namely Rastrilleger kanagurta and Epinephalus menu bought from Thirespuram and Punnakayal fish landing sites at Tuticorin. Out of the total 40 fish, 12 fish showed the presence of microplastic particulates in the intestine. The particulates included microfibers (80%) in red, black and translucent colors and irregularly shaped microplastic fragments (20%). The microplastics were identified as Polyethylene and Polypropylene by Fourier Transform Infrared Radiation analysis. Though microplastics were detected in the gut of the species, the risk of transfer due to consumption can be safely ruled out as the fish are degutted prior to consumption here. Presence of microplastics in the Tuticorin coast is a matter of concern due to its proximity to the Gulf of Mannar, a sensitive coral reef patch already threatened by marine pollution.