The research conducted by an international team led by the Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn and the University of Exeter shows that high levels of plastic pollution can have devastating effects on the embryos of a variety of ocean animals. The study tested the effects of PVC pellets on the development of seven different species, all of which were found to be negatively impacted when exposed to high concentrations of these pellets. The main process affected by the pollution was morphogenesis, resulting in embryos that were unable to develop properly and, therefore, could not survive. The researchers highlight the potentially catastrophic effects of increasing plastic pollution in the ocean, with implications for marine life, the environment, and humans.
The species examined in the study showed various abnormalities when exposed to high levels of PVC pellets. Some species failed to develop essential structures such as shells or notocords, while others had issues with forming bilateral features or ceased development after a few rounds of cell division. These abnormalities resulted in non-viable embryos across all species tested. Even species that reproduce asexually by regeneration were also affected by high concentrations of the pellets. The researchers note that the levels of pollution examined in the study would typically only be seen in cases such as spills of PVC pellets, which have occurred in the past.
In addition to new PVC pellets, the study also examined the toxic effects of plastic samples recovered from beaches. While the effects were not as widespread as those observed with new pellets, high concentrations of beach plastic were found to impact the development of molluscs, sea urchins, sea stars, and sea squirts. Given that coastal areas are known hotspots for plastic pollution, severe pollution could have significant consequences for marine life. The researchers stress that extreme pollution during reproductive periods could lead to the loss of the next generation of these species, highlighting the urgent need for action to reduce plastic entering the ocean. The European Union is currently considering legislation aimed at reducing releases of pre-production plastic pellets.
Dr. Eva Jimenez-Guri, first author of the study, explains how plastics can cause developmental abnormalities in marine species. Plastics contain a range of potentially harmful components, including zinc, which is slowly released into the water once the plastic is deposited. If the extreme levels of plastic pollution observed in isolated cases become more common, many species may become unable to reproduce, leading to significant impacts on marine life, the environment, and potentially humans. Urgent action is required to address the issue of plastic pollution and prevent further harm to ocean ecosystems. The research was funded by a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Action Fellowship awarded to Dr. Jimenez-Guri, underscoring the importance of continued research efforts to address this pressing environmental issue.
