Microplásticos en playas del Guayas: análisis y comparación de abundancia en dos playas de arenas

Abstract

Microplastics (MPs) are tiny particles that are difficult to detect with the naked eye and represent the most abundant and harmful fraction of plastic debris. The coastal marine environment allows these tiny particles to move through different media. Therefore, quantifying the abundance of MPs in various matrices becomes a significant challenge. This project assessed the abundance and diversity of MPs on two sandy beaches using a standardized protocol. Sand samples were collected using a 50 x 50 cm quadrat on El Encanto and Bellavista beaches. The samples were processed to extract the MPs and to determine their size, shape, and color using a stereomicroscope. The results showed that MPs between 300 μm and 1 mm predominated on El Encanto, while MPs between 1 mm and 5 mm were more abundant on Bellavista. Additionally, fibers, films, and fragments of different colors were larger on Bellavista beach compared to El Encanto. Therefore, microplastics with smaller fractions are found on El Encanto, while larger fractions are found at Bellavista. Furthermore, transparent and blue fibers are the most abundant and pose the greatest danger. Keywords: microplastics, sandy beaches, protocol.