Unravelling spatio-temporal patterns of suspended microplastic concentration in the Natura 2000 Guadalquivir estuary (SW Spain): Observations and model simulations

• DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112622
• Publication Date: 2021-06-16T10:40:02Z
• Authors: María Bermúdez; César Vilas; Rocío Quintana; Daniel González-F...; Andrés Cózar; Manuel Díez-Minguito
• Keywords: Turbidity; Discharge

Microplastics (MPs) patterns in a weakly-stratified estuary were investigated using combined approach of observations and modeling. The study was conducted the Guadalquivir River Estuary, which is high environmental value, yet significantly altered by human activities. aims to contribute understanding quantifying land-ocean transport MPs. Mean concentrations MPs 0.041 items m−3, with maximum values up 0.20 agreement range reported other estuaries. Polyethylene floating predominant. Relationships between increases MP concentration local rainfall events identified middle when there no significant discharges from head dam. Modeling results mimicked revealed effects tidal straining, density-driven, river flow-induced circulation on net transport. Convergence transports favors trapping vicinity Doñana National Park, overlapping location Estuarine Turbidity Maximum.