Digesting the Indigestible: Microplastic Extraction From Prawn Digestive Tracts

Microplastics (MPs) have become ubiquitous in the marine environment, and are likely ingested by a broad cross-section of life. The extent to which organisms ingest MPs is uncertain due limitations analytical methods. Effective identification analysis precursor understand their impact on human consumers. This particularly challenging for crustaceans, chitin present exoskeleton digestive systems, resistant chemical degradation. study presents novel application that can efficiently break down stable organic tissue banana prawns ( Penaeus merguiensis ), subsequently isolate putative MP polymers from tract without damaging integrity. Five treatments were examined capacity prawn system; namely acid, alkaline, oxidant, enzyme microwave assisted oxidant digestion. Gravimetric image revealed gastrointestinal be effectively removed digestion However, testing seven reference (polyamide (PA), polyethylene (PE), polyester (PES), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), rayon) significant degradation when exposed acid Overall, achieved best recovery rate spiked > 90%) with minimal size, shape, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectral changes all except rayon. These results highlight new direction removal extraction crustacean ingestion studies.