Unlocking Passive\nCollection of Microplastics in Coral\nReefs by Adhesion Measurements

Microplastics (MPs) pollution poses a significant threat\nto marine\necosystems, with MPs accumulating from various sources and ultimately\nsettling on the seabed. Notably, corals play a crucial role in capturing\nMPs, primarily through their surface mucus rather than ingestion.\nThis study explores the mechanisms behind MP capture by live <i>elegance</i> corals, examining their interfacial forces in comparison\nto Scleractinia coral skeletons and model coral skins. Our findings\nreveal that live <i>elegance</i> corals exhibit strong adhesion\nforces that effectively trap MPs, a trait absent in other studied\nsurfaces. Moreover, the consistent pull-off force required to remove\nMPs from live corals, regardless of plastic type (polystyrene or polyethylene),\nindicates a universal force barrier for scavengers. By leveraging\ntraditional adhesion measurement techniques, our research underscores\nthe essential function of coral mucus in MP capture and offers valuable\ninsights for conservation strategies aimed at mitigating MP pollution\nin marine environments.