Identification of Microplastics in Skipjack Tuna (Euthynnus affinis) at the Pangandaran Fish Landing Base, West Java

Agriculture and Veterinary Sciences

Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 5 mm that are widely distributed in aquatic environments and can enter and accumulate in marine organisms, including skipjack tuna (Euthynnus affinis). Skipjack tuna is one of the main fishery commodities in Pangandaran and represents an important source of protein for coastal communities. This study aimed to assess the abundance and characteristics of microplastics in the stomachs of skipjack tuna landed in Pangandaran, West Java. A total of 20 individuals were analyzed. Microplastics were isolated by digesting stomach contents with a 10% KOH solution, followed by incubation in a water bath at 70°C and 150 rpm until complete homogenization. The digested samples were filtered using a 250 µm sieve and oven-dried at 40°C for 2 hours prior to microscopic examination. The results indicated that microplastics were present in all stomach samples, with an average abundance of 4.1 particles per individual. Four microplastic types were identified: fragments (19.66%), fibers (28.28%), films (31.04%), and granules (21.03%), exhibiting a range of colors including blue, red, yellow, green, black, white, and transparent. Film-shaped microplastics were the most prevalent (31.04%), and black was the dominant color observed. These findings demonstrate that skipjack tuna landed in Pangandaran are contaminated with microplastics and may serve as effective bioindicators of marine plastic pollution. Continuous monitoring and improved coastal waste management are therefore essential to mitigate the impacts of microplastic contamination.

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