Microplastics occurrence in Johnius dussumieri (Doma) fish from Mahim bay, Mumbai, India
1Sangeeta P. Salunke and 2Vaishali Phusate
1K J Somaiya College of Science & Commerce, Vidya Vihar, Mumbai-400075 India 2Ramnarain Ruia Autonomous College, Matunga, E. Mumbai-400019 India Corresponding author: sangeeta@somaiya.edu; sangeetastudies03@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
This study investigates the seasonal and spatial variations of microplastic contamination in the gut of Johnius dussumieri (Doma fish) at Mahim Beach and Worli Jetty across Pre-Monsoon, Monsoon, and Post-Monsoon seasons. Results indicate significant shifts in color and morphologyof micro plastics, with Black and Transparent particles being predominant. During the Monsoon season, there was a notable increase in fragments, attributed to higher runoff and water flow. Polymer analysis revealed a higher presence of PE (42.9% at Mahim, 58.8% at Worli) and Nylon (23.8% at Mahim, 11.8% at Worli) during the Monsoon. ANOVA results underscored the significant role of color (p=0.004), with interactions between location and color (p=0.002) and season and color (p≈0). The Monsoon season recorded the highest microplastic contamination, emphasizing the impact ofenvironmental changes. These findings highlight the need for improved waste management, public awareness, policy interventions, and ongoing monitoring to mitigate microplastic pollution in marine ecosystems.