Faculty Advisor

Hodum, Peter

Area of Study

Science and Mathematics

Publication Date

Summer 2015

Abstract

The effect of microplastics on marine invertebrates is almost completely unknown, and must be studied if marine habitats are to be protected from further damage. This research begins to clarify the environmental and physiological factors that affect microplastic contamination in Mytilus mussels. The tissues of mussels were examined for the presence of microplastic particles. Plastic particulates were measured for size and documented to determine if significant differences were present between mussels of different sizes, at different tidal positions, and at different locations around Puget Sound. Significant levels of microplastic contamination were found, with some statistically relevant trends.

Publisher

University of Puget Sound

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