MICROPLASTIC CONTAMINATION IN ANCHOVIES (Engraulidae) SOLD IN MERCEDES FISH PORT IN CAMARINES NORTE, PHILIPPINES

Marine organisms, including anchovies, are known to ingest microplastics—plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in diameter, raising significant ecological and human health concerns. This study examined the presence, composition, and potential sources of microplastics in anchovies collected from the Mercedes Fish Port in Camarines Norte, Philippines. A descriptive research design was employed, with 64 anchovy samples selected randomly for analysis. The samples underwent whole-body digestion, saline solution flotation, filtration, visual inspection, dimensional measurement, and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis. All recovered microplastics were identified as fibers with exclusively filamentous shapes. Among the colored plastic particles, red (50%) was the most prevalent, followed by black (25%) and pink (25%). These microplastic fibers varied in size, ranging from 201–400 μm, to 601–800 μm, to over 1000 μm. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis confirmed that all microplastic fibers were made of polyester, a common synthetic polymer. These findings suggest that textile waste and fishing-related activities are the likely sources of microplastic contamination in anchovies. The predominance of red-colored microplastic fibers supports a potential link to dyed synthetic materials commonly found in textile products and fishing gear. Microplastics were detected in 6.25% of anchovy samples from the Mercedes Fish Port—marking the first documented case of microplastic ingestion by anchovies in the Bicol Region. Although the occurrence rate is low, the presence of synthetic polyester fibers signals an emerging threat to marine ecosystems and food safety. This finding underscores the urgent need for increased awareness and proactive steps to address microplastic pollution. Given the serious implications to aquatic life and potential risks to human consumers, continued monitoring of microplastic contamination in marine species is highly recommended. Further research is crucial to evaluate the long-term ecological impacts, dispersal patterns, and potential health risks associated with microplastic contamination in marine organisms and human consumers.