Microplastics in the surface seawater of Bandon Bay, Gulf of Thailand

• Published in: Marine pollution bulletin Vol. 179; p. 113664
• Main Authors: Ruangpanupan, Natenapa, Ussawarujikulchai, Achara, Prapagdee, Benjaphorn, Chavanich, Suchana
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Elsevier Ltd 01.06.2022; Elsevier BV
• Subjects: Abundance; Abundances; Aquaculture; Bandon Bay; Chemical analysis; Colour; Estuaries; Estuary; Fisheries; Microplastics; Plastic debris; Plastic pollution; Pollution levels; Polymer; Polypropylene; Seawater; Surface seawater; Water analysis; Gulf of Thailand; Polymer; Microplastics; Surface seawater; Bandon Bay; Abundances; Estuary
• ISSN: 0025-326X; 1879-3363
• DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113664

This study aimed to evaluate the microplastics abundance, composition and distribution in Bandon Bay's surface seawater, in southern Thailand. Samples of microplastics were collected from 48 transects using a surface manta trawl at four different estuaries that support human activities. The results showed that the highest microplastic abundance occurred in the fishery and aquaculture areas with a mean abundance of 0.33 particles/m3. Fragments were the dominant form at all stations. Microplastics with <1 mm were the dominant size, and white was the colour most found in all stations. Polypropylene was the major type of microplastic, accounting for 57% overall. This study is an important reference for understanding the microplastics status in the surface seawater of Bandon Bay, as it will allow relevant agencies to accurately assess the pollution level of microplastics in the bay. It is of practical significance to understand the sources and sinks of microplastics. [Display omitted] •Microplastics were detected in the surface seawater of all stations at Bandon Bay.•The abundance was highest in the areas of fishery and aquaculture activities.•The majority of microplastics were white fragments <1 mm in diameter.•Polypropylene was the major polymer, contributing 57% of the analysed microplastic particles.