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Abstract Microplastics are of increasing concern as they are readily ingested by aquatic organisms. This study investigated microplastic trophic transfer using larval inland silversides (Menidia beryllina) (5 d posthatch) and unicellular tintinnid (Favellaspp.) as a model food chain relevant to North American estuaries. Low‐density polyethylene microspheres (10–20 μm) were used to compare direct ingestion of microplastics by larval fish and trophic transfer via tintinnid prey. Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT)‐treated microspheres were used to determine sorbed pollutant effects on microplastic ingestion. Larval fish exposed directly to microspheres ingested significantly fewer than those exposed via contaminated prey. Larvae ingested significantly more ciliates containing DDT‐treated microspheres than ciliates containing untreated plastics but did not discriminate when exposed directly. Larvae reared for 16 d following a direct 2 h exposure had significantly lower wet weight values than unexposed controls. Our results demonstrate that trophic transfer is a significant route of microplastic exposure that can cause detrimental effects in sensitive life stages.
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This content will become publicly available on November 21, 2025
Trophic transfer and bioaccumulation of nanoplastics in Coryphaena hippurus (mahi-mahi) and effect of depuration
Ocean plastic pollution is a global concern, exacerbated by the distinctive physiochemical characteristics of nanoplastics (NPs), making it crucial to study the impacts on marine animals, particularly fish, given their ecological and economic importance. Both trophic transfer and waterborne exposure are potential modes of NP entry into seafood for human consumption Although the majority of studies have focused on in-vitro impacts of NP exposure in fish, in-vivo methods can offer a more holistic understanding of these impacts. This study investigates polystyrene NP transfer toCoryphaena hippurus(mahi-mahi) larvae, a widely consumed fish and significant marine predator, during the early life stage.Brachionus plicatilis(rotifers) were exposed to NPs, and subsequently fed toC.hippuruslarvae, with exposure duration ranging from 24 to 96 h. Significant NP transfer was observed via the food chain, varying with exposure duration. A depuration study over 72 h, simulating intermittent NP exposure, revealed substantial NP excretion but also notable retention in the larvae. Biodistribution analysis indicated that most NPs accumulated in the gut, with a significant portion remaining post-depuration and some translocating to other body areas containing vital organs like the heart, liver, and gall bladder. Despite no significant effects on body length and eye diameter during this short study period, histopathological analysis revealed intestinal tissue damage in the larvae. Overall, this study provides valuable insight into the trophic transfer of NPs in marine food webs, emphasizing the need for further research on ecological impacts and highlighting the importance of addressing NP contamination to protect marine ecosystems and food safety.
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- Award ID(s):
- 2038484
- PAR ID:
- 10559942
- Editor(s):
- Iqbal, Babar
- Publisher / Repository:
- PLOS One
- Date Published:
- Journal Name:
- PLOS ONE
- Volume:
- 19
- Issue:
- 11
- ISSN:
- 1932-6203
- Page Range / eLocation ID:
- e0314191
- Format(s):
- Medium: X
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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