Seasonal variation in the ingestion of anthropogenic particles by Mylossoma duriventre in the Juruá River Valley, state of Acre, Brazil

This study aimed to investigate the seasonal variation in the presence of plastic fragments in the digestive system of Mylossoma duriventre, a species that is both abundant and commercially significant in the Juruá River Valley, state of Acre, Brazil. Two collections were conducted, the first in March 2024 and the second in July-August 2024, in the municipality of Cruzeiro do Sul, state of Acre. Our findings indicated that hydroclimatic factors play a crucial role in the occurrence of microplastics in M. duriventre, with a notable increase in fiber ingestion during the high-water period. These results contribute to a deeper understanding of the environmental risks associated with microplastics and highlight their biological consequences. In addition, this study aimed to raise awareness of the urgent need to reduce plastic usage and implement responsible waste disposal practices.