|
Effects of Plastic Debris on Macrofaunal Diversity in Green Mussel (Perna viridis Linnaeus, 1758) Bed Assemblages in the Northern Straits of Malacca
|
K. Shuen-Law   , N. Nilamani , S. Pin-Woo , M. Lenz , Sh. Hwai-Tan |
|
|
|
Abstract: (19 Views) |
Mussel beds are vital ecosystem engineers that enhance coastal productivity and provide habitat for diverse macrofauna. Green mussels (Perna viridis) form dense aggregations that support rich macrofaunal communities, but these habitats are increasingly threatened by plastic debris, which can alter habitat structure and disrupt benthic ecosystems. Plastic pollution is a growing concern because it can modify habitat complexity, alter species interactions, and potentially disrupt benthic community structure and functioning.
This study aimed to assess the richness and abundance of macrofauna associated with green mussel beds. Seven replicates of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) platforms (50 × 50 cm) were set up, each containing 30 mussel specimens with layers of pre-weathered plastic bags, fishing lines, or without any plastics as a control. The platforms were enclosed by a plastic mesh to prevent specimen loss and deployed along the jetty of the Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS) in the northern Straits of Malacca. After six weeks, the platforms were collected, and the associated macrofauna were preserved in 70% ethanol for identification. A total of 3,622 individual organisms representing 68 species were recorded. The macrofauna community was dominated by Mollusca (33.88%), followed by Vertebrata (12.81%), Crustacea (5.99%), Porifera (1.93%), Echinodermata (0.52%), and Cnidaria (0.47%). While plastic debris did not significantly affect species richness and evenness, moderate amounts of film-type plastics were associated with higher richness, suggesting subtle effects on habitat complexity. These findings highlight the resilience of Perna viridis assemblages to short-term plastic exposure, while underscoring the need for longer-term studies. |
|
| Keywords: Straits of Malacca, Biodiversity, Coastal Waters, Green Mussel, Plastic Pollution |
|
|
Full-Text [PDF 416 kb]
(14 Downloads)
|
Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
General
Received: 2025/09/15 | Accepted: 2026/03/30
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Add your comments about this article |
|
|
|
