Unveiling Microplastics in Tilapia (Oreochromis Niloticus) from Lake Lanao and Assessing Community Awareness: Basis for IEC and I’m Development

This study explores the growing concern of microplastic pollution in Lake Lanao by analyzing its presence in Oreochromis niloticus (tilapia) and assessing community awareness and attitudes in three lakeside municipalities: Marawi City, Mulondo, and Tamparan. Using a mixed-methods design, eighteen tilapia samples (six per site) were dissected, and their gastrointestinal tracts and gills were analyzed using 10% potassium hydroxide (KOH) digestion, filtration, and stereomicroscopy. A total of 21 microplastic particles were extracted and categorized by morphology, with films most prevalent in Marawi and fibers dominating in Mulondo and Tamparan. FTIR analysis identified common polymers such as Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP), Polyester (PET), and Polyamide (Nylon). Complementing the lab analysis, survey data from 989 residents revealed consistently low awareness of microplastic pollution but high willingness to engage in environmental action. Spearman’s correlation showed a moderate positive relationship between knowledge and attitude (ρ = 0.422), highlighting the influence of education. Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) further illustrated firsthand observations of declining fish quality and increased plastic waste. These findings led to the development and expert validation of two educational outputs: a localized Grade 8 instructional module and a tri-fold IEC brochure promoting microplastic awareness in schools and communities.