The role of habitat preference and feeding strategy on exposure to microplastic pollution in freshwater fish species

Microplastic (MP) pollution has been observed in a variety of ecosystems, but there is a limited number of studies on reservoir ecosystems. The aim of this study was to determine the levels of MP contamination in sediment, water and commercially important fish species (Cyprinus carpio, Perca fluviatilis, Atherina boyeri and Sander lucioperca) collected from the Yamula Reservoir in Türkiye. Water samples were collectes at five stations. Four sediment samples were collected from the lake. As sediments from the lake represent a vital element of the lake ecosystem, they function as a historical archive that reflects alterations in land use and the characteristics of the lake over time. The average amounts of MPs observed in sediment and water samples were 0.12 MP/g and 0.58 MP/m3 respectively. The digestive systems of 30 individuals of each fish species were examined. The highest amount of MP was observed for C. carpio (6 ± 5.9 MP/individual), while the lowest amount of MP was observed for A. boyeri (1.8 ± 1.7 MP/individual). MP abundance in S. lucioperca and P. fluviatilis was 2 ± 2.8 and 4.6 ± 6.3 MP per individual. The most commonly observed polymer types were polypropylene (67%), polyvinyl alcohol (13%), polyethylene resin (13%) and high-density polyethylene (7%). The pollution load indexes determined for each fish species from the highest to the lowest were as follows: 1.83 (C. carpio) 1.6 (S. lucioperca) 1.05 (P. fluviatilis) and, 1 (A. boyeri). The findings of the study indicate that all sampling stations, including both sediment and water, are contaminated with MPs. Furthermore, the results demonstrate that all examined fish species ingest MPs. Additionally, the results indicate that fish inhabiting a wide range of habitats and consuming diverse diets are more susceptible to MP contamination. [Display omitted] •Microplastic particles were found in 79% of the fish examined.•Habitat preferences and feeding strategy are important in MP exposure.•Benthopelagic and omnivorous fish are more likely to be affected by microplastics.•Sediment and water column act as a source of microplastics.