Abstract

Microplastics (MP) and massive influxes of pelagic Sargassum are emerging ecological problems. Microplastics are ubiquitous and can obstruct the digestive system and cause malnutrition, tumors, and reduced reproductive capacity, among other effects. Massive influxes of Sargassum deteriorate the quality of coastal waters. They cause eutrophication, decrease dissolved oxygen and pollute with heavy metals and arsenic, affecting ecosystems in their biodiversity and functioning. This research aimed to characterize the degree of MP contamination in the Sargassum landing in the northern Caribbean area of Mexico. The abundance of MP, forms, and colors were determined by optical microscopy. The analysis of its morpho structure and elemental analysis were determined by SEM scanning microscopy and EDXS. The abundance of MP was higher in March and April of 2021, with means of 12.0 MP.g-1 and 15 MP.g-1, respectively. The lower abundances (3-5 MP.g-1) occurred from May to October of that year and in January 2022. Fibers were the predominant form, representing between 48 and 98%. Transparent MP were the most abundant, followed by black and blue fibers.

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