THE FIRST EVALUATION OF MICROPLASTICS IN THE XINGU RIVER
Keywords:
Amazon, Fluvial Sediments, Abundance, Morphology, ColorAbstract
Microplastics can be generated by various human activities and are found in different environmental reservoirs, such as river sediments. Considering the rich biodiversity of the Amazon and the intense human interference in the region, it is essential to assess the state of its water resources. Thus, this study aimed to analyze the abundance, morphology, and color of microplastics in the sediments of the Xingu River in Pará. The data collection and analysis were carried out in February 2023. Microplastics were collected from the river sediments and extracted using density and flotation principles. A mean concentration of 204±60 particles/kg was detected, with a prevalence of fibers (56.86%) and fragments (25%), followed by fiber bundles (10.78%) and spheres (7.35%). The majority of microplastics found were transparent (57.84%). Our results revealed that the abundance of microplastics in the Xingu River is higher than in freshwater systems located in agricultural and conservation areas, comparable to those in urban and industrial areas. Thus, there is a need for political, social, and environmental actions to remediate the presence of microplastics in Amazonian River systems.
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