Microplastic contamination in three marine fish species from Peru

Microplastic particles (MPs) can be consumed by marine fish and pose a potential threat to public health through the consumption of these aquatic resources. The aim of this study was to identify the presence of MP as pollutants in three species of marine fish from Peru: Labrisomus philippii (Steindachner, 1866) (Labrisomidae) «Trambollo», Centropomus robalito Jordan & Gilbert, 1882 (Centropomidae) «Golden-finned snook», and Larimus pacificus Jordan & Bollman, 1890 (Sciaenidae) «Bereche». The fish were acquired between September and November 2023 from the two main fish markets in Lima, Peru. The total length (TL) (cm) and weight (TW) of the fish was registered. Gills, digestive tract, and muscle tissue were analysed for the presence of MPs. The extraction and characterization of the MPs were performed according to standard procedures. No association was observed between TL and TW with the quantity of MPs in the three species. L. pacificus showed a greater total amount of MPs in the gills, digestive tract, and muscle compared to L. philippii and C. robalito. There was a greater presence of film-type MPs in the gill arches and gastrointestinal tract, while a higher incidence of fibres/filaments was recorded in the muscle tissue. Black and blue MPs were the dominant colours. Black and blue film-type MPs were the most abundant. A greater presence of MPs measuring <500 µm and 501–1000 µm was observed. It is concluded that all three marine fish species showed the presence of MPs.