Macro-microscopic evidence of pest, diseases and coexistence of microplastics in Avicennia marina leaves from Mangunharjo Village, Tugu District, Semarang, Central Java, Indonesia

Abstract

There are enormous organisms that live depending on the mangrove ecosystem due to its important ecological services. However, their sustainability is threatened by the presence of diseases and pests. This study aimed to provide macro-microscopic evidence of diseases and pest infestation in Avicennia marina in Mangunharjo village, Tugu District, Semarang City, Central Java, Indonesia. During the survey, several trees had galls and symptoms of diseases on the leaves. Interestingly, we also found unidentified objects that were suggested as microplastic on the surface and inside of the leaves.