Determination of the amount of microplastic found in Osmerus eperlanus caught in the Neva river

Abstract

This study draws attention to the current problem of pollution of aquatic ecosystems with microplastics and its potential impact on humans through food products. The level of microplastics in smelt Osmerus eperlanus, caught from the Neva River in St. Petersburg, was assessed. The research methodology included collecting fish samples and examining their internal organs and muscle fibers for the presence of microplastics. The results showed that microplastic particles were present in all samples examined, especially in female smelt. The study also found the presence of microplastics in the muscles of the fish, indicating the possibility of their entry into the human body through fish consumption.