Vertical Distribution and Composition of Plastics in Coastal Areas of the Gulf of Cadiz: Insights into Transport Dynamics.

ABSTRACT: Plastic distribution in the surface water of the marine environment has been well-documented over the years. However, vertical distribution of plastic within the water column remains poorly understood due to a lack of in situ data. This study investigates the vertical distribution of plastic particles in coastal areas of the Gulf of Cádiz, examining the surface (0-0.2 m), subsurface (0.2-1.2 m), water column (1.2-100 m), and sediment layers. Using a high vertical resolution sampling, we analyzed plastic concentration patterns across different environmental compartments, as well as plastic particle characteristics. Our results show the highest plastic concentrations in the sediments (97.9%). Concentrations along the water column decrease exponentially with depth, retaining the particles in

SUBMITTER: Quintana R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12392743 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature