Occurrence and characterization of microplastics in freshwater surface waters: evidence from Lake Eğirdir (Türkiye)
International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology, cilt.23, sa.10, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 23 Sayı: 10
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.1007/s13762-026-07432-6
- Dergi Adı: International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Compendex, Environment Index, Geobase, INSPEC, Natural Science Collection (ProQuest), Materials Science & Engineering Collection (ProQuest), Technology Collection (ProQuest)
- Anahtar Kelimeler: Anthropogenic pressure, Inland water pollution, Polymer identification, Seasonal variation
- Süleyman Demirel Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
Microplastic pollution has become an important environmental concern in freshwater ecosystems because of its persistence, widespread distribution, and potential ecological effects. In this study, microplastic abundance in the nearshore surface waters of Lake Eğirdir, located in Isparta Province, Türkiye, was investigated. Surface water samples were collected from three nearshore stations during summer (July) and autumn (October) of 2024. At each station, 5 L of surface water was collected and transferred into glass bottles to minimize secondary contamination. In the laboratory, the samples were filtered, subjected to oxidative pretreatment to remove organic matter, and examined under a stereomicroscope. Microplastic particles were classified according to their morphological type and color, and selected particles were analyzed by Attenuated Total Reflectance–Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy to confirm polymer composition. Quality assurance and quality control procedures, including a procedural blank, were applied throughout the study. A total of 359 microplastic particles were identified, corresponding to an overall abundance of 11.97 items/L. Microplastic abundance was higher in summer than in autumn, and the highest value was recorded at the harbour station, indicating the possible influence of local anthropogenic activities. Fragments and filaments were the dominant morphological types, whereas black was the most common color. Polymer analysis confirmed the presence of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, and polystyrene, with polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyethylene terephthalate being dominant. Statistical analysis showed that morphology and color distributions differed significantly between seasons. Overall, this preliminary assessment provides baseline data for future monitoring of microplastic pollution in Lake Eğirdir.