Antarctic threats: anthropogenic microfibers and plasticizers in the scallop Adamussium colbecki from the Ross Sea

Antarctica is increasingly impacted by anthropogenic pollutants, including microplastics (MPs) and associated plastic additives. This study presents the first integrated assessment of microfibres (MFs) and plasticizers in the Antarctic scallop Adamussium colbecki, a key benthic species in the Ross Sea. A total of 54 MFs were isolated from 12 samples, with an average of 4.5 ± 2.7 MFs/individual, higher than previously reported for bivalves in the region. Characterized MFs were natural (cotton, wool, cellulose), semi-synthetic, or polyethylene terephthalate (PET), showing strong similarities with textiles used by personnel at the nearby scientific research station. Tissue-specific differences suggest distinct exposure pathways, particularly via filtration in scallop's gills and accumulation in the mantle. Co-occurrence of plastic additives like phthalates (e.g., DEHP, DiBP/DnBP), organophosphate esters (e.g., TPHP) and non-phthalate plasticizers (e.g., DEHA), was confirmed in both scallops and outdoor technical clothing, reinforcing the hypothesis that textile-derived MFs act as chemical vectors. Notably, several additive concentrations in A.colbecki exceeded levels reported for bivalves in other global regions, indicating a potential combination of local and long-range sources of contamination. These findings highlight the susceptibility of Antarctic coastal ecosystems to emerging contaminants coming from both local sources and long-range transport and underscore the urgent need for improved wastewater management practices and mitigation strategies within polar research infrastructures.