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A Study of microplastics contamination in soil, seawater and seagrass at Sikao District, Trang Province.
Organization(s):Princess Chulabhorn Science High School Trang
Country:Thailand
Student(s):Thanwarat Jenwitchumet and Kantaros Asbilly
Grade Level:Secondary School (grades 9-12, ages 14-18)
GLOBE Teacher:Patchara Pongmanawut
Contributors:Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mullica Jaroensutasinee and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Krisanadej Jaroensutasinee from Walailak University
Dr. Anantanit Chumsri from Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya Trang campus
and Bo Hin Farmstay Community Enterprise
Report Type(s):International Virtual Science Symposium Report, Standard Research Report
Protocols:Land Cover Classification, Dissolved Oxygen, pH, Salinity
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Optional Badges:I am a Collaborator, I make an Impact, I am a STEM Storyteller
Language(s):English
Date Submitted:03/06/2024
This research aims to study the amount of microplastics in soil, seawater and sea grass. The study was conducted at Pak Klong Beach and Ao Kham, Sikao District, Trang Province. The study was conducted by collecting samples of water, soil and 3 prominent sea grass species; Enhalus acoroides, Halophila ovalis and Cymodocea rotundata. Analysis of water quality, microplastics in soil, in seawater and in seagrass of all 3 species. The results of the study found that the pH and salinity of the water in both areas were not significantly different, but the DO values were slightly higher in Ao Kham than at Pak Klong Beach. The amount of microplastics in soil and seawater was found to be not significantly different in the two study areas. It was found that the amount of microplastics in the soil was higher than in the seawater. When studying the amount of microplastics in the soil in areas with all 3 species of seagrass, it was found that soil in areas with Enhalus acoroides had the highest amount of microplastics (19.00 ± 1.04, Pak Khlong beach and 14.00 ± 0.99 piece/300g, Ao Kham), followed by areas with Halophila ovalis and Cymodocea rotundata respectively. When studying the amount of microplastics in seagrass, it was found that Cymodocea rotundata had the highest amount of microplastics (5.67 ± 1.45 piece/300g, Pak Khlong beach and 5.00 ± 0.89 piece/300g, Ao Kham), followed by Enhalus. acoroides and Halophila ovalis respectively. The size of microplastics found in each species of seagrass in both areas was not different. Microplastics found ranged in size from 1mm-20 μm. Most were found in the shape of filaments and black color. This suggests that these microplastics may have come from fishing nets or equipment used in fishing in the area.