Microplastic pollution in aquaculture species: Quantification and characterization in Tilapia and Pangas

Microplastics (MPs) are an emerging threat to freshwater ecosystems and aquatic life, yet data on MPs pollution in aquaculture systems especially in Bangladesh, remain scarce. This study investigated the tissue accumulation and polymer compositions of MPs influenced by the feeding habits of Oreochromis niloticus and Pangasius hypophthalmus from aquaculture ponds. MPs were predominantly detected in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and muscle tissues, with fibers (<0.5 mm) being the most common type and black the dominant color. Interestingly, feeding habits did not significantly affect the overall MP intake. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed 70.3 % of the total variation in Tilapia and 53.7 % in Pangas, with 1 to 5, transparent, and filament (fiber) showing significant positive contributions as the main components. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis detected polyethylene as the most abundant polymer, followed by polyester, polypropylene, cellulose, non-plastic, and unidentified particles. These findings highlight the prevalent presence of MPs in aquaculture systems, raising concerns about trophic transfer and eventual risks to human health. The study highlights the pressing need for operational management policies to alleviate MP pollution in aquaculture environments.