Determinación de presencia de microplásticos en el contenido estomacal del Chloroscombus orqueta (Cucharita/hojita) comercializado en el mercado de Playita mía, de la parroquia Tarqui del cantón Manta.

Abstract

In the marine ecosystem, microplastics (MP) have become a growing concern due to their negative effects on aquatic organisms, including alterations in growth, reproduction, nutrition, and obstruction of the gastrointestinal tract, as well as interfering with the immune system. These particles, which come from various sources, are transferred through the food chain, affecting not only marine organisms, but also humans. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the presence and types of microplastics in the stomach content of Chloroscombrus orqueta, a species of great commercial importance in Ecuador. The study seeks to investigate the impact of microplastics on this marine species, given its key role in local fisheries. The results highlight the persistence of microplastics in marine ecosystems and the high exposure of commercial species such as C. orqueta. This study highlights the need to further investigate the impact of microplastics on the health of marine ecosystems and the food chain, in order to develop strategies to mitigate this growing environmental problem.