Microplastic plastic found in the Tissue and skeletons of corals:

Research found that Micro plastics are found in three parts of coral anatomy – Surface mucus on the outside, tissue of the inside, skeleton made up of calcium carbonate deposits the researchers developed a simple yet effective way to extract and identify micro plastic from corals.

The researchers collected 27 coral samples, discovering 174 micro plastic particles which were mostly the width of a human hair. Among this particles, 38% were found in the surface mucus, 25% in the tissue and 37% in the coral skeleton. The most common micro plastics were Nylon, Polyacetylene and PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) the finding suggested that corals are playing the role in missing plastic problems. Since corals skeletons remain impact after they die, this deposited micro plastic can potentially be preserved for hundreds of years.

However when micro plastic invade this corals repercussions repeal through the food chain. Fish that depend on the coral for shelter and sustains may in advertently consume this plastic leading to bio accumulation. This process not only adversely affects marine health but also poses a treat a human population relevant on sea food the delicate balance of this eco system is under risk, Highlighting the urgency for targeted interventions aimed at mitigating plastic pollution.

This alarming discovery may offer new clues about the missing plastic problems were about 70% of the plastic litter that entered the ocean that cannot be found. The researchers proposed the corals may be the suspecting culprits, observing micro plastic from the ocean, acting as a plastic sink.

In south East Asia plastic pollution as become a significant issue. Collectively, nearly 10 million tons of plastic waste are dumped annually equallent to 1/3 of the world total.

Global Action is needed recognizing the profound implication of the findings, the research team advocates for the stronger global initiative to combat the proliferation of micro plastics. Affects to reduce plastic production and enhance waste management system are imperative on this front, international corporation is essential for enacting regulations and fostering sustainable practices.

Innovations in biodegradable materials and increased recycling rates could curtail for the environmental degradation. Continued research will be pivotal in devising sustainable solutions to safeguard marine biodiversity.

We also do not know the health effects of the micro plastic on coral and the larger reef community there is still much to be done to accurately evaluate the impact of micro plastics on our ecosystems.