Synthetic fibers and tire abrasion have the strongest impact on corals. Corals feed on plankton from the seawater, but they also ingest tiny plastic particles due to ocean pollution. Sometimes, they cannot expel the microplastics and store them in their calcareous skeleton, which can harm some species. This can lead to slower growth, coral bleaching, or necrosis.
Synthetic Fibers and Tire Abrasion Microplastics: A Threat to Corals
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Introduction:
Corals, vital components of marine ecosystems, face numerous threats due to human activities. Among these threats, plastic pollution has emerged as a significant concern. Microplastics, tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size, have been found in various marine environments, including coral reefs. These particles can be ingested by corals, potentially affecting their health and growth.
Synthetic Fibers and Tire Abrasion Microplastics: Sources and Transport
Synthetic fibers from clothing and tire abrasion are major sources of microplastics in the environment. Synthetic fibers can be released during washing and drying of clothes, while tire abrasion occurs when tires wear down on roads. These microplastics can be transported by wind and water, eventually reaching coral reefs.
Impact of Synthetic Fibers and Tire Abrasion Microplastics on Corals:
Studies have shown that synthetic fibers and tire abrasion microplastics can have adverse effects on corals. These microplastics can become entangled in coral colonies, interfering with their feeding and cleaning mechanisms. Additionally, microplastics can be ingested by corals, potentially leading to various health issues.
Research Findings: Impact of Microplastics on Coral Physiology
A recent study conducted by researchers at Justus Liebig University Giessen (JLU) investigated the impact of microplastics on two coral species: cauliflower coral (Pocillopora verrucosa) and hood coral (Stylophora pistillata). The study exposed these corals to four different types of microplastics: plastic waste from the environment, synthetic fibers from clothing, and residues from the automotive sector, including tire abrasion, brake abrasion, and paint chips.
The results showed that synthetic fibers and tire abrasion microplastics had the most significant impact on coral physiology. These microplastics triggered changes in coral growth, photosynthesis, and health. The cauliflower coral was more affected than the hood coral, possibly due to differences in their growth form and feeding strategy.
Current Concentration and Risk Assessment:
Despite the observed effects, the researchers concluded that the current concentration of microplastics in the environment is not likely to endanger corals. However, they emphasized the need for measures to reduce the release of synthetic fibers and tire abrasion microplastics into the environment.
Conclusion:
Synthetic fibers and tire abrasion are significant sources of microplastics that can harm corals. While the current concentration of microplastics may not pose an immediate threat, it is essential to take action to reduce their release into the environment. Protecting coral reefs from microplastic pollution is crucial for maintaining the health and biodiversity of marine ecosystems.
FAQ’s
What are the major sources of microplastics in the environment?
Synthetic fibers from clothing and tire abrasion are major sources of microplastics in the environment.
How do microplastics affect corals?
Microplastics can become entangled in coral colonies, interfering with their feeding and cleaning mechanisms. Additionally, microplastics can be ingested by corals, potentially leading to various health issues.
Which coral species is more affected by synthetic fibers and tire abrasion microplastics?
The cauliflower coral (Pocillopora verrucosa) was more affected than the hood coral (Stylophora pistillata), possibly due to differences in their growth form and feeding strategy.
Is the current concentration of microplastics in the environment a threat to corals?
The researchers concluded that the current concentration of microplastics in the environment is not likely to endanger corals. However, they emphasized the need for measures to reduce the release of synthetic fibers and tire abrasion microplastics into the environment.
What can be done to reduce the impact of synthetic fibers and tire abrasion microplastics on corals?
To reduce the impact of synthetic fibers and tire abrasion microplastics on corals, measures should be taken to minimize the release of these microplastics into the environment. This can include reducing the use of synthetic fibers in clothing and promoting the use of alternative materials. Additionally, efforts should be made to reduce tire abrasion, such as improving road conditions and promoting the use of electric vehicles.
Links to additional Resources:
www.noaa.gov www.unep.org www.greenpeace.org.Related Wikipedia Articles
Topics: Coral bleaching, Microplastic pollution, Synthetic fibersCoral bleaching
Coral bleaching is the process when corals become white due to various stressors, such as changes in temperature, light, or nutrients. Bleaching occurs when coral polyps expel the zooxanthellae (dinoflagellates that are commonly referred to as algae) that live inside their tissue, causing the coral to turn white. The zooxanthellae...
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Microplastics
Microplastics are fragments of any type of plastic less than 5 mm (0.20 in) in length, according to the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the European Chemicals Agency. They cause pollution by entering natural ecosystems from a variety of sources, including cosmetics, clothing, food packaging, and industrial...
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Synthetic fibers or synthetic fibres (in British English; see spelling differences) are fibers made by humans through chemical synthesis, as opposed to natural fibers that are directly derived from living organisms, such as plants (like cotton) or fur from animals. They are the result of extensive research by scientists to...
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Amelia Saunders is passionate for oceanic life. Her fascination with the sea started at a young age. She spends most of her time researching the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems. Amelia has a particular interest in coral reefs, and she’s always eager to dive into articles that explain the latest findings in marine conservation.