Tracking anthropogenic microparticles in wildlife of an alpine insular environment

Scientists have documented the first evidence of anthropogenic microparticles, including microplastics and cellulosic fibres, in the faeces of wild rabbits and mouflons in Teide National Park, a high-mountain UNESCO World Heritage Site. Analysis of 616 samples revealed that while most were particle-free, 37 anthropogenic particles—primarily blue cellulosic microfibres (2721 ± 407 µm), along with poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate) and polypropylene—were identified at a rate of 0.79 ± 0.20 items per gram of dry faecal matter. The study suggests atmospheric deposition and tourism as likely sources, highlighting the pervasive impact of human activity even in remote alpine environments. This discovery underscores the introduction of microplastics into terrestrial food chains, posing potential ecological risks.

Álvarez-Méndez, S. J., Díaz-Peña, F. J., Gómez-Escabia, S., González-Sálamo, J., & Hernández-Borges, J. (2024). Tracking anthropogenic microparticles in wildlife of an alpine insular environment. Journal of Hazardous Materials, 465, 133291. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133291