Residues of anthropogenic origin found at Stranger Point/Cabo Funes, 25 de Mayo/King George Island, Antarctica

Abstract

Since the Antarctic continent is not exempt from human disturbances, it is necessary to generate information on the residues of anthropogenic origin in these environments. The main aim of our study was to determine the presence and abundance of anthropogenic residues found around the pygoscelid penguin colony of the Antarctic Specially Protected Area No. 132 "Potter Peninsula" (25 de Mayo/King George Island, South Shetland Islands, Antarctica), in order to contribute with information on the distribution of anthropogenic residues that have been recorded in different regions of the Antarctic Peninsula and the Scotia Arc. A total of 37 anthropogenic elements (821.73 g) were collected between September 2021 and March 2022. According to the type of material, the most abundant were 'various plastic residue' (54.05%) and 'consumer plastic residue' (35.14%). Regarding size, most of the elements had a length between 15 and 30 cm, followed by those with a length < 5 cm, while regarding color, white residues were the most common (n = 9), followed by transparent ones (n = 7). The origin of these residues could be found in fishing, tourism, logistics and scientific activities. It is important to continue monitoring residues to assess potential impacts on biota and the environment.