Effect of seasonal dynamics on microplastic pollution and its vectorization of heavy metals: An in-vitro toxicity assessment in Artemia franciscana

This study extensively investigated the abundance of microplastics in Thiruvottiyur coastal area of Chennai, India, before and after Cyclone Michaung. The results demonstrated a significant correlation between microplastic distribution and aftermath rainfall. The concentration of microplastics in sediments increased from 150 ± 48 particles kg⁻¹ to 186 ± 21 particles kg⁻¹ after the cyclone. In seawater, the concentration rose from 1.28 particles L⁻¹ to 3.65 particles L⁻¹, respectively. Heavy metals such as Al, Mg, Zn, Cr, Pb, Cu, Cd, Co, and As were detected on the surface of microplastics, demonstrating their vectorization potential for co-contaminants. After exposure, these microplastics induced oxidative stress in Artemia franciscana with increased superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Fluctuations in weather conditions lead to heterogeneous changes in microplastic distribution, revealing the seasonal dynamics of microplastics. This study will provide background information to devise strategies for mitigating microplastic pollution in the marine environment.