Producción CyT
Book of Abstracts XXXVII. XI Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) - Assessment of Microplastics Pollution in surface marine sediments of the coastal environment of Potter Cove (25 de Mayo Island/King George Island, South Shetlands, Antarctica) and surrounding areas.
Congreso
Autoría:
Antacli J. ; Schloss I.R. ; Rimondino G. ; Alurralde G. ; Servetto N. ; GARCIA, MAXIMILIANO DARIO ; Morales S. ; Ottero A. ; Di Mauro R. ; Sahade R. ; Vodopivez C.Fecha:
2024Editorial y Lugar de Edición:
Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR)Resumen *
Marine plastic pollution is now a key driver of global ecosystem alterations, impacting even the remote Southern Ocean and Antarctica. Recent findings have highlighted elevated levels of microplastic debris (MPs, particles under 5 mm) of <1 mm size in the coastal waters of Potter Cove (King George Island/25 de Mayo, South Shetlands, Antarctica) (Antacli et al. 2024). This study represents the first comprehensive analysis of MPs´ concentration, distribution, and composition in marine sediments surrounding the island. The objective was to characterize and quantify plastics and infer their origins. Extensive samplings were conducted through SCUBA diving and a stainless-steel Van Veen grab operated from a Zodiac boat during 2020-2021. A total of 31 near-surface sediment samples (15-25 m depth) were collected in Potter Cove and nearby sites, capturing diverse influences, including those from the Argentinian Carlini research station. MPs were retrieved by flotation, categorized, microscopically photographed, measured using image analysis software (Image J), and identified through FTIR spectroscopy to ascertain their polymeric composition. MPs were present in all samples, with concentrations ranging from 0.02-0.80 MPs/g (mean concentration: 0.26±0.22 MPs/g). Dominant types included anthropogenic, transparent, white, and blue microfibers measuring 0.08 to 7.8 mm, with a median length of 0.01 mm. Additionally, prevalent were black, blue, and transparent irregular microfragments with diameters from 0.04 to 4.9 mm and a median diameter of 0.33 mm. Most MPs exhibited signs of aging, such as discoloration and unraveled features, resembling those commonly associated with clothes washing. The highest MP concentrations were recorded near the wastewater treatment plant outfall of the station, implicating local activities as the primary source. This study underscores the urgent need for further research on MPs around other Antarctic stations to identify potential sources of contamination. Such findings can inform policy discussions and contribute to the development of effective management responses. Información suministrada por el agente en SIGEVAPalabras Clave
ANTARCTICAMARINE SEDIMENTS MICROPLASTIC POLLUTION