Microplastics in the Gastrointestinal Tract of Red Swamp Crayfish

This project examined how the presence of microplastic (MP) fiber balls affect MP accumulation within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract of invasive crayfish in the Chicago River. After being dissected, the contents of the GI tracts were examined for the number, color, and type of microplastics. If there are significantly less MPs in the lower GI tract when a MP fiber ball is present in the upper GI tract, then the MP fiber balls influence the accumulation of plastic. Through this experience, I was able to deepen my understanding of the movement of microplastics in the Chicago River.