Microplastic contamination extent on Strombus sp. in North Bintan Waters

Abstract

Microplastics, which are crumbled plastic waste measuring less than 5 mm, are known to have contaminated the conch snail species Strombus sp. and sediments in the waters of North Bintan. This study aims to provide a basic report on the number of stranded plastic crumbs (micro) and the contamination level in conch Snails (Strombus sp.) In North Bintan waters. The methods used in this research are survey and quantitative methods. Determination of the location point by purposive sampling. The procedure is divided into two stages: quadrant sampling in the field and analysis of microplastic particles in the laboratory with H2O2 liquid as an oxidizing agent and ZnCl2 solution as a microplastic determinant with a floating system. 16.4 ± 31.6 particles/individuals. Meanwhile, the level of contamination that occurs in Strombus sp. experienced in Pengudang Village by 88%, which means that on average each individual at the Pengudang station has the potential to be contaminated with 22 microplastic particles. The high level of contamination is a threat to the safety of seafood because there is the contamination of microplastic particle pollutants in one of the marine biota consumed by Strombus sp.