In every single mammal examined by researchers, at least one piece of plastic was found to be ingested by the mammal, according to Scientific Reports. The researchers found an average of 5.5 particles in the animals’ guts.
Microplastics are defined as small particles of plastic that are smaller than five millimetres. Marine mammals can ingest microplastics directly or indirectly through other animals.
According to the researchers, their findings are shocking, but unsurprising. One researcher described the ocean as a “soup of microplastics.” Further study is required in order to examine the side effects of microplastics and the chemicals contained in them, especially how these affect the animals’ health.
84% of microplastics found in the mammals came from synthetic materials, such as clothing, fishing nets, or toothbrushes. The microplastics also originated from objects such as packaging and plastic bottles.
