Characterization of Microplastics in Gastointestinal Tracts of Some Selected Fish Species in Akhalia River, Fulbaria, Mymensingh

: Rivers have been identified as significant paths for the movement of microplastics into lake and marine environments. This study aimed to assess the abundance, distribution, and characteristics of microplastics in three freshwater fish species (Channa punctatus, Macrognathus armatus, and Anabas testudineus) from the Akhalia River, Fulbaria. During August through October of 2024, nine fish samples were collected at seven sampling stations. To identify the particles, microplastic concentrations were measured using the Daffodil MCX100 microscope. From the study it is found that the number of microplastics in the gut of freshwater fishes varied from 19.67±2.49 to 22.67±1.69 particles per 100L. Taki (Channa punctatus), a carnivorous fish species, consumed the most abundance microplastics (36%) and Baim (Macrognathus armatus), an omnivorous fish species, consumed the least amount (31%) of microplastics. The most commonly ingested types of microplastic were 34% filament, 28% fragment, 20% foam, 11% film, and 7% others. Black Microplastics were the least common (6%), while white microplastics were the most common (45%). Other colors include transparent (8%), blue (15%), green (18%), and red (8%). Around 46% of the microplastics in fish samples were greater than 4 mm and 23% microplastics were <0.5 mm in size. Fish body weight and length have a little positive association with microplastic abundance, according to linear regression analysis. From this study, it is revealed that microplastics pollute water bodies and hence, fishes. These findings highlight the need for rigorous environmental monitoring, public education, and governmental actions to prevent plastic pollution in river water.