Occurrence and Ingestion of Plastic Particles in Marine Fish from Togolese Coast

Abstract

The increase in plastic production towards the end of the Second World War, combined with inadequate plastic waste management, has contributed to the contamination of marine ecosystems. The ingestion of plastic particles measuring less than 5 mm, known as microplastics, by marine organisms has been documented. The aim of this study was to demonstrate that plastic particles can ultimately enter the human food supply. To achieve this objective, two fish species, pike and whiting, were sampled from commercial catches obtained from local fishers. Both species were sampled at the Kodjoviakope and Aneho sites. For each species, fifty (50) specimens were purchased. The fish were then dissected, and their stomach contents were examined using an Olympus C011 binocular stereomicroscope. In pike, 14% of the fish had ingested a plastic particle, whereas no plastic particles were detected in whiting. These findings highlight the need for consumers and other stakeholders to make greater efforts towards effective plastic waste management, as microplastics can act as vectors for micropollutants and chemical additives that may pose risks to human health. The findings also serve as a warning to stakeholders in the education and health sectors, who are encouraged to raise awareness among learners about the harmful effects of plastic waste, appropriate waste-management practices, and, ultimately, opportunities for its recovery and valorisation.