PCB-126 spiked to polyethylene microplastic ingested by juvenile Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) accumulates in liver and muscle tissues

In the present study, polyethylene (PE) microplastics (150–300 μm) were added to Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) feeds at 1 %, either in their present form (Virgin PE) or spiked with PCB-126 (Spiked PE). The feeds were given to juvenile cod for a 4-week period. The fish grew from 11 to 23 g with no significant difference between dietary treatments. Cod fed spiked PE showed a significantly higher concentration of PCB-126 in liver and muscle samples compared to control and fish ingesting virgin PE. In accordance with the accumulation of PCB-126 in the liver, the expression of hepatic cyp1a was higher in cod fed spiked PE. Notably, we observed that spiked PE, as well as virgin PE, have an effect on skin. Overall changes indicated a reduced skin barrier in fish fed a diet containing PE. Indicating that PE itself through interaction with gut tissue may influence skin health in fish. [Display omitted] •PCB-126 are highly adsorbed to polyethylene (PE) microplastics at 150–300 μm.•Inclusion of 1 % PE in feeds to cod juveniles does not affect growth or mortality.•PCB-126 spiked PE affects liver cyp1a gene expression and PCB accumulation.