Microplastic ingestion data for 86 fish species across five Vanuatu communities: a reference for Pacific Island pollution monitoring

This microplastic dataset was collected to address critical gaps in understanding microplastic pollution in Vanuatu's coastal food fish. While microplastic contamination threatens marine ecosystems and human health across the Pacific, comprehensive data from Vanuatu's subsistence fisheries has been lacking. Collected in partnership with Vanuatu's Fisheries Department as an extension of creel surveys, this dataset aimed to provide essential baseline information across 86 fish species from five fishing communities. Although gathered as part of a broader regional project investigating microplastic exposure risks for Pacific fishing communities, this complete dataset is being published separately to ensure all stakeholders have access to the full range of findings. This resource will enable regional comparisons and support evidence-based management of marine plastic pollution. The dataset documents microplastic ingestion in 354 individual fish (from 86 species), detailing occurrence rates (4.8% of specimens [n = 17]), polymer composition (39% polyethylene [n = 5 of 13 analyzed particles]), particle morphology (95% fibers [n = 18 of 19 total observed particles]), and size distribution (predominantly 250–1000 µm). As Vanuatu's first comprehensive broad assessment of microplastics in subsistence fisheries, it establishes an important baseline for future research and policy decisions. The data is particularly valuable for Pacific Island Countries where the importance of coastal fisheries and traditional fish consumption practices (including gastrointestinal tracts) may increase microplastic exposure risks.