Fish characteristics and microplastic ingestion: a mediation analysis of fish length and trophic level in Western Mediterranean pelagic demersal fish

Abstract

This paper provides valuable insights into the factors that influence microplastic ingestion by Mediterranean fishes. We present the results of a mediation analysis investigating the relationship between fish length and the number of ingested microplastics, with fish trophic level as a mediating variable. Results show a significant positive mediating effect of fish trophic level on the relationship, indicating that higher trophic level fish have a greater impact on microplastic ingestion. However, the overall effect of fish length on microplastic ingestion was found to be non-significant. Overall, our findings suggest that feeding habits and trophic niche descriptors can have a significant impact on the ingestion of plastic particles in fish species. The study highlights the need for continued research and action to reduce microplastic pollution in aquatic ecosystems, as higher trophic level fish may pose a risk to human consumers.