Do tidal fluctuations affect microplastics distribution and composition in coastal waters?

ABSTRACT

The hydro-meteorological conditions in marine environments are recognized to have a major impact on the transport and dispersion of microplastics (MP), although their precise effects remain poorly understood. This study investigates the effects of tidal fluctuations on MP abundance and composition in a megatidal coastal water. Waters samples were collected every ninety minutes over the course of two complete tidal cycles - one during spring tide and another during neap tide. There were no significant disparities in term of abondance, size, and composition of MPs between the samples collected during the two tidal cycles. Nevertheless, MP abundance and characteristics (morphology, size and polymer types) can be influenced over the course of a complete tidal cycle due to the impact of tidal currents and water height. This study highlights the need to consider the fluctuations of the tidal cycle when planning in-situ surveys to better assess MP pollution in coastal environments.