Microplastics in the Gulf of Guinea: An analysis of concentrations and distribution in sediments, gills, and guts of fish collected off the coast of Ghana

Abstract

Microplastics (MPs, <5 mm) accumulate in marine environments, impacting marine organism health. This study examined MPs in sediment and two pelagic fish species (S. maderensis and I. africana) in Ghana's Gulf of Guinea. The study found an average concentration of 0.144 ± 0.061 items/g (dry weight) in the sediment, with pellets and transparent particles being the most common types. The concentration of MPs in contaminated fish ranged from 8.35 to 20.95, with fibers and pellets being the most abundant plastic-type in fish. Individual organ concentrations of MPs varied. In fish gills, concentrations ranged from 1 to 26 MPs/individual for I. africana and 1-22 MPs/individual for S. maderensis. Concentrations in the fish guts ranged from 1 to 29 MPs/individual for I. africana and 2-24 MPs/individual for S. maderensis. Results from the study highlight the importance of both gills and guts as important organs in terms of microplastic contamination and emphasize the significance of monitoring microplastic contamination in fish gills and guts. This offers valuable insight into the impact of MPs on the marine environment and human health.

Keywords: Emerging contaminant; Illisha africana; Marine environment; Plastic pollution; Sardinella maderensis.