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Email the author (Login required) Microplastic ingestion by copepods in a coastal environment of the Gulf of California, Mexico
Submited: 2024-05-16 16:56:24 | Published: 2025-06-30 18:48:32
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3856/vol53-issue3-fulltext-3280
Abstract
This study examined the ingestion of microplastics (MPs) by copepods in the Bay of La Paz, the largest and deepest coastal environment in the Gulf of California (GC), Mexico. The research was based on zooplankton samples collected during oceanographic cruises from 2003 to 2016 at a location near the urban area of La Paz city. In the laboratory, adult copepods were selected from the samples, and a dilution process was used to extract the MPs from their bodies. Were extracted 428 MPs, consisting of fibers, films, fragments, and pellets (microspheres). No evidence was found to suggest that the ingestion of MPs has increased over time. The year 2009 recorded the highest number of MPs, with 120 items, which may be attributed to the circulation pattern during that period, which was influenced by an old, decaying cyclonic eddy. In contrast, 2014 had the fewest MPs, with only 44 items. Throughout the study, transparent fibers were the most conspicuous material. Research on the ingestion of MPs by copepods in Mexico is still in its early stages. According to the available literature, this study represents the first documented report on this subject in coastal waterbodies within the GC.
