Health, Environment, and Community Well-Being

Microplastic Contamination Analysis in Blood Cockles (Anadara sp.) from Cowrie Island, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan

John Andrei B. Sanchez, Avien Ynna M. Hasan, Jhonamie A. Mabuhay-Omar

Abstract

Microplastics pose escalating threats to marine ecosystems and public health worldwide. Cowrie Island, despite its rich marine biodiversity, faces chronic anthropogenic pressures that degrade coastal ecology. Blood cockles (Anadara sp.), among the most frequently harvested shellfish in the area, are particularly vulnerable to microplastic contamination. This study aimed to detect and characterize microplastics in Anadara sp. from Cowrie Island. Thirty samples were collected and microplastics were characterized by particle type, shape, and color using standard methods. A total of 45 microplastic particles were found, with fibers comprising 40% of the total. Particle concentration ranged from 0.14/g to 0.24/g. Black microplastics were predominantly observed, with most particles exhibiting elongated shapes. These findings raise significant public health concerns regarding consumption of Anadara sp. from Cowrie Island and emphasize the need for regular water quality monitoring and expanded research employing advanced detection methods.