Microplastic distribution in urban vs pristine mangroves: Using marine sponges as bioindicators of environmental pollution

Sessile benthic organisms are considered good bioindicators for monitoring environmental quality of coastal ecosystems. However, these environments impacted by new pollutants such as microplastics (MPs), where there is limited information about that can be used reliable emerging contaminants. We evaluated MP concentrations in three compartments: surface sediment, water and marine sponge species (Haliclona implexiformis, Halichondria melanadocia Amorphinopsis atlantica), to determine whether accumulate MPs reflect their possible sources. Results showed all compartments. Average ranged from 1861 3456 items kg?1 dry weight sponges, 130 287 L?1 6 11 sediment. The maximum concentration was the A. atlantica, which registered 5000 weight, 670 sediment 28 kg?1, values were found disturbed study area. exhibited bioaccumulation significant differences between pristine sites (F = 11.2, p < 0.05), suggesting use MP.