Modelling microplastic bioaccumulation and biomagnification potential in the Galapagos penguin ecosystem using Ecopath and Ecosim (EwE) with Ecotracer.

ABSTRACT: Bioaccumulation and biomagnification of anthropogenic particles are crucial factors in assessing microplastic impacts to marine ecosystems. Microplastic pollution poses a significant threat to iconic and often endangered species but examining their tissues and gut contents for contaminant analysis via lethal sampling is challenging due to ethical concerns and animal care restrictions. Incorporating empirical data from prey items and fecal matter into models can help trace microplastic movement through food webs. In this study, the Galápagos penguin food web served as an indicator species to assess microplastic bioaccumulation and biomagnification potential using trophodynamic Ecopath with Ecosim (EwE) modelling with Ecotracer. Empirical data collected from surface seawater near Galápagos p

SUBMITTER: McMullen K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10807758 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature