First report of microplastics presence in the mussel Mytilus chilensis from Ushuaia Bay (Beagle Channel, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina)

Abstract

Microplastics contamination is reported for the first time on Mytilus chilensis from Ushuaia Bay, one of the most remote areas of South America. Our results demonstrate the occurrence of microplastics in all samples, with an average of 8.6 ± 3.53 items per individual. Fibers and fragments were the most abundant, with a percentage of 77.91 and 17.44%, respectively. The average length of the fibers was 742.3 ± 702.1 μm, while the average cross-sectional area of fragments was 1944.80 ± 960.94 μm2. The polymers identified were polyamides, semi-synthetic cellulosic materials, and PVC copolymers. The number of microplastics per individual was greater than those reported in even more populated regions. Probably, the modifications included in the technique led to optimize the extraction of MPs, reflecting the detection of a greater number of particles. M. chilensis could play a role in an extensive evaluation of MPs in the Ushuaia Bay, providing information on the interaction of MPs and biota.