Determination of Frequency, Distribution and Composition of Microplastics in the Waters of Qarasu Ardabil River

 Today, plastics and plastic products are so widespread that the idea of life without them may not be understood. The extensive presence of microplastics in the environment and their emission sources has attracted the attention of many researchers. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine microplastics' frequency, distribution, and composition in the Qarasu River in Ardabil in 1399.

 In this descriptive cross-sectional study, samples were collected from 5 stations in the Qarasu River (Karkarq, Sarband, Anzab Sofla, Dolatabad, and Samian villages) under standard methods. Method of analysis of samples and separation of microplastics based on method Difference between density and digestion was performed and completed using a stereo microscope equipped with a digital camera and FT-IR infrared spectrometer.

 Fiber and Fragment, the most common forms of microplastics, were identified in the water of the Qarasu River. Also, the identified microplastics had various colors, including white, black, yellow, transparent, red, pink, and green. Microplastic particles of less than 5 mm constituted about 98% of the total microplastic in the river. The abundance of microplastics showed a significant difference among the sampling stations.

 The present study showed the presence of microplastics in the Qarasu River ecosystem. Therefore, microplastics can cause potential risks to human health by entering the food chain. Therefore, control, prevention, and monitoring measures must happen by the Environmental Protection Agency, the University Health Department, private associations, and environmental organizations.