Widespread Microplastic Pollution in Central Appalachian Streams: Implications for Freshwater Ecosystem Sustainability DOI Open Access

Isabella M. Tuzzio,

Brent A. Murry, Caroline C. Arantes

et al.

Sustainability, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: 17(7), P. 2926 - 2926

Published: March 26, 2025

Microplastic pollution levels and potential sources of contamination in North Central Appalachia are evaluated to fill a major knowledge gap regarding microplastics freshwater systems, which lead negative consequences for the sustainability healthy freshwaters. Fifty-five northern hogsucker fish were sampled from nine sites throughout seven streams region. particles extracted gastrointestinal (GI) tracts via 10% KOH digestion identified visually. A total 2185 identified, ranging between 8 274 particles/individual an average 39.73 particles/individual. The most found within Cheat watershed, particularly at Big Sandy Creek downstream site, followed by tributaries Monongahela Ohio Rivers. particle type was fiber (96.61%). There positive relationship length number particles. Agricultural land use E. coli abundance both positively correlated with microplastic abundance. sewage input appear be important drivers these streams, although we cannot rule out influence atmospheric deposition. These results point widespread ecosystems Appalachia.

Language: Английский

Widespread Microplastic Pollution in Central Appalachian Streams: Implications for Freshwater Ecosystem Sustainability DOI Open Access

Isabella M. Tuzzio,

Brent A. Murry, Caroline C. Arantes

et al.

Sustainability, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: 17(7), P. 2926 - 2926

Published: March 26, 2025

Microplastic pollution levels and potential sources of contamination in North Central Appalachia are evaluated to fill a major knowledge gap regarding microplastics freshwater systems, which lead negative consequences for the sustainability healthy freshwaters. Fifty-five northern hogsucker fish were sampled from nine sites throughout seven streams region. particles extracted gastrointestinal (GI) tracts via 10% KOH digestion identified visually. A total 2185 identified, ranging between 8 274 particles/individual an average 39.73 particles/individual. The most found within Cheat watershed, particularly at Big Sandy Creek downstream site, followed by tributaries Monongahela Ohio Rivers. particle type was fiber (96.61%). There positive relationship length number particles. Agricultural land use E. coli abundance both positively correlated with microplastic abundance. sewage input appear be important drivers these streams, although we cannot rule out influence atmospheric deposition. These results point widespread ecosystems Appalachia.

Language: Английский

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