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Microplastics Found in Coral: New Insights into Ocean Pollution
Context:
- Researchers from Japan and Thailand have discovered that all three parts of coral anatomy—surface mucus, tissue, and skeleton—harbour microplastics.
- This groundbreaking study utilised a novel detection technique, marking the first time microplastics have been analysed in coral.
Microplastics:
- Tiny plastic particles smaller than 5 millimetres have spread into our oceans, soil, and air, raising concerns for both the environment and human health.
- Recent evidence shows that humans continuously inhale and ingest microplastics through contaminated seafood, tap water, bottled water, and even common beverages like beer and salt.
- Additionally, chemicals from plastic water bottles, utensils, and skincare products can leach into our bodies, potentially causing serious health issues such as endocrine disruption, weight gain, insulin resistance, decreased reproductive health, and cancer.
Key Findings:
- Microplastics in Coral: The study revealed 174 microplastic particles across 27 coral samples across four species, primarily from the coast of Si Chang Island in the Gulf of Thailand.
- The particles ranged mostly from 101–200 μm, similar in size to human hair.
- The distribution of microplastics was found to be 38% in surface mucus, 25% in tissue, and 37% in skeletons.
- The most prevalent microplastics identified were nylon (20.11%), polyacetylene (14.37%), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) (9.77%).
- Corals as “Sinks”: The findings suggest that corals may act as a sink for microplastics, potentially explaining the “missing plastic problem,” where approximately 70% of plastic debris entering oceans remains unaccounted for.
- The study indicates that microplastics could be preserved in coral skeletons for hundreds of years.
Plastic Pollution Crisis and Collaborative Research:
- Human reliance on plastics, while providing convenience, has wreaked havoc on ecosystems.
- It’s estimated that 4.8–12.7 million tons of plastic enter the oceans annually, with Southeast Asia alone contributing nearly 10 million tons—about one-third of the global total.
- This study is part of a broader initiative by Kyushu University and Chulalongkorn University, aimed at tackling plastic pollution in Southeast Asia through the newly established Center for Ocean Plastic Studies in 2022.
Implications for Marine Ecosystems:
- The researchers propose that corals, much like trees that sequester carbon dioxide, could play a significant role in absorbing marine plastic waste.
- They emphasise the need for further studies to assess the health effects of microplastics on corals and the overall reef ecosystem.
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