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Published on: August 14, 2021
The potential use of birds as bioindicators of suspended atmospheric microplastics and artificial fibers
Chloe Wayman1, Francisca Fernández-Piñas2, Rocío Fernández-Valeriano3
1Department of Chemical Engineering, Universidad de Alcalá, Madrid, Alcalá de Henares E-28871, Spain.
Abstract:
Microplastics (MPs) and artificial fibers (AFs) have been detected suspended tens of meters above ground level in the atmosphere, yet empirical data on them remain scarce. This study aimed to investigate the presence of MPs and AFs in the digestive and respiratory systems of two abundant bird species, the Common House Martin (Delichon urbicum) and the Common Swift (Apus apus), within the Community of Madrid, Spain. Given that these birds spend the majority of their lives airborne, engaging in activities such as mating and sleeping during flight, the research sought to assess the potential of using these bird species as bioindicators for suspended atmospheric MPs and AFs. Samples were obtained from necropsies of birds (N = 24) collected primarily between spring and summer from 2021 to 2023. Only individuals that died within the initial 24-hour period and had not been fed were selected for examination to avoid contamination. MPs and AFS were identified by micro-FTIR, characterized and quantified. Results revealed that 75 % of the sampled birds exhibited at least one MPs in their respiratory and/or digestive system. All identified MPs were fibers, with polyester (PES) being the most predominant (48 %), followed by acrylic fibers (ACR; 28 %), and polyethylene (PE; 18 %). The average concentrations in the respiratory system were 1.12 ± 0.45 MPs/specimen and 2.78 ± 1.04 AFs/specimen for Common Swift and 0.75 ± 0.30 MPs/specimen and 0.75 ± 0.36 AFs/specimen for House Martin. In the digestive system, these were 1.92 ± 0.72 MPs/specimen and 3.42 ± 0.69 AFs/specimen for Common Swift, and 1.34 ± 0.50 MPs/specimen and 1.39 ± 0.47 AFs/specimen for House Martin. Birds collected areas with high population density located in the direction of the prevailing winds showed a concentration of MPs significantly higher in the digestive system. Taken together, these findings confirmed the potential use of these birds as bioindicators for monitoring of suspended atmospheric MPs and AFs.
Insights
Airborne microplastics (MPs) and artificial fibers (AFs) were found in 75% of sampled birds, confirming their potential as bioindicators. Common House Martins and Swifts ingested these atmospheric pollutants, highlighting widespread environmental contamination.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Ecotoxicology
- Atmospheric Science
Background:
- Microplastics (MPs) and artificial fibers (AFs) are increasingly detected in the atmosphere.
- Limited empirical data exists on their presence and impact on airborne organisms.
- Aerial insectivorous birds offer a unique opportunity to study atmospheric pollutant exposure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and types of MPs and AFs in the digestive and respiratory systems of Common House Martins and Common Swifts.
- To assess the potential of these bird species as bioindicators for atmospheric MPs and AFs.
- To correlate MP/AF concentrations with environmental factors such as population density and wind direction.
Main Methods:
- Necropsies were performed on 24 Common House Martins and Common Swifts collected between 2021-2023.
- Strict protocols were followed to prevent contamination, selecting only recently deceased, unfed birds.
- Micro-Fourier-Transform Infrared (micro-FTIR) spectroscopy was used to identify, characterize, and quantify MPs and AFs.
Main Results:
- 75% of sampled birds contained MPs in their respiratory and/or digestive systems.
- All detected MPs were fibers, primarily polyester (48%), acrylic (28%), and polyethylene (18%).
- Higher MP concentrations were found in birds from densely populated areas influenced by prevailing winds.
Conclusions:
- Common House Martins and Common Swifts accumulate atmospheric MPs and AFs, validating their use as bioindicators.
- These findings underscore the pervasive nature of airborne microplastic pollution.
- Further research can refine the use of these species for atmospheric monitoring programs.
