Microplastics in the digestive tract of an endangered cetacean of the Southwest Atlantic Ocean: The franciscana dolphin

Abstract

In this study, we investigated for the first time anthropogenic microparticles in the franciscana dolphin Pontoporia blainvillei, the most endangered cetacean of the Southwest Atlantic Ocean. The intestinal content of the proximal and distal sections, and wall tissues of the proximal section of ten female dolphins collected during 2013–2023 were analyzed. All samples contained anthropogenic particles (%FO = 100). Fibers were the most abundant shape (99 %). Micro-Raman and micro-FTIR spectroscopies revealed the presence of polyester, polypropylene, acrylic, polyethylene, and semi-synthetic cotton polymers. Manufactured pigments such as reactive blue 238, Indigo 3600, and diarylide azo pigment (yellow 152) were also detected. We observed variations in the color and types of polymers present in the different sections of the intestine and within the wall tissue, suggesting a differential microplastic absorption. These findings confirm both the presence and absorption of microplastics in the intestines from franciscana dolphins.