Characterization of Ingested Microplastics in a Regional Endemic Lizard <i>Apathya cappadocica</i> (Werner, 1902) from Turkiye.

ABSTRACT: This study investigated the presence, characteristics, and distribution of ingested microplastics (MPs) in Apathya cappadocica, a regional endemic lizard species. A total of 93 individuals were examined, and MPs were found in 19.35% (n = 18) of them. A total of 27 microplastic particles were detected, averaging 1.5 MPs per positive individual and 0.29 MPs per individual across the sample. MP sizes ranged from 50 to 1727 µm, with a mean size of 355.46 ± 73 µm. Most MPs (93%) were fibers, while the rest were fragments. The dominant color was navy blue (41%), followed by red and black (19% each). Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) was the most common polymer (67%), followed by polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene (PE). Statistical tests revealed no significant differences in MP size

SUBMITTER: Dursun C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12561676 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature