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Protocol for Microplastics Sampling on the Sea Surface and Sample Analysis
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A microplastic size classification scheme aligned with universal plankton survey methods.

J R Bermúdez1,2,3, P W Swarzenski1,4

  • 1International Atomic Energy Agency, Principality of Monaco, Monaco.

Methodsx
|November 10, 2021
PubMed
Summary

This study proposes harmonizing microplastic (MP) size categories with established plankton research standards. This will create biologically relevant MP size classes and enable easier comparison across studies.

Keywords:
ClassificationFood webMicroplasticsPlanktonRangeSize

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Area of Science:

  • Environmental Science
  • Marine Biology
  • Ecotoxicology

Background:

  • Microplastics (MP) are pervasive marine pollutants.
  • Current MP size classification lacks biological or physical basis.
  • Existing categories cover excessively broad size ranges.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To propose harmonizing microplastic size categories with long-standing plankton research classifications.
  • To establish refined MP size classes grounded in biological reality.
  • To facilitate comparative analysis between microplastic and plankton research literature.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current microplastic size classification systems.
  • Analysis of established plankton size categorization methods.
  • Proposal for a unified size classification framework.

Main Results:

  • Current MP size categories are biologically and physically arbitrary.
  • Plankton research offers a robust, biologically relevant framework for size classification.
  • Harmonization allows for more precise microplastic research and data integration.

Conclusions:

  • Adopting plankton size categories for microplastics enhances scientific rigor.
  • This harmonization bridges the gap between microplastic and plankton research.
  • Standardized MP size classes will improve understanding of their ecological impact.