Microplastics detected in haemolymph of the Sydney rock oyster Saccostrea glomerata

Plastic waste is ubiquitous in marine environments. Despite the sheer volume of plastic waste, it remains relatively unknown how marine invertebrates will interact with microplastics (plastic <1 mm). Microplastics (<2 μm) were ingested by the economically and ecologically significant Sydney rock oyster Saccostrea glomerata and translocated to the haemolymph, perhaps via phagocytosis. The presence of microplastics in the haemolymph indicates that filter feeding S. glomerata can ingest and accumulate microplastics which are prevalent in the environment. This research shows microplastics can enter marine molluscs and highlights the need to monitor microplastics in the marine environment and aquaculture to safeguard the seafood industry.