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Updated: May 3, 2026

Protocol for Microplastics Sampling on the Sea Surface and Sample Analysis
Published on: December 16, 2016
Methodological similarities and discrepancies among studies on microplastics in South American continental aquatic
Décio Semensatto1,2, Camila C Passos1, Camilla S Bicalho1
1Universidade Federal de São Paulo (Unifesp), Laboratory of Integrated Sciences (LabInSciences), Rua Professor Artur Riedel, 275, 91720-270 Diadema, SP, Brazil.
Abstract:
We analyzed methodological similarities and discrepancies regarding microplastics (MPs) pollution studies in South American continental aquatic environments (lotic and lentic systems). A systematic search up to October 2024 on ScienceDirect, Scopus, Web of Science, and Scielo returned 57 papers, the first being published in 2017. Papers from Brazil were the most frequent, particularly in the Amazon region. Methodological discrepancies, especially in sampling, detection limits and sample preparation, limit data comparability and impact progress toward understanding MPs' environmental impact. Harmonizing methodologies and broadening geographic coverage are crucial. Recommendations include regional collaboration, integrated studies, and enhanced analytical approaches to improve environmental diagnostics and support policy development for plastic pollution management.
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