Effects of microplastics on bivalves: Are experimental settings reflecting conditions in the field?

Bivalves are the focus of experimental research as they can filtrate a broad size range microplastics (MPs) with negative consequences for their physiology. Studies use MP shapes, materials, sizes and concentrations raising question on whether these reflect environmental observations. We review studies effects MPs marine bivalves contrast characteristics used corresponding data from environment. Mussels were most common bivalve across experiments which high abundance distribution in field. Although fibres dominant shape coastal systems, spherules beads, often orders magnitude higher than levels. For relevance findings we recommend that maximum 100–1000 particles/L, there is more microfibers concentration reported particles/volume.