This dataset contains 3 csv files. One file
(South_Africa_Biota_Microplastics.csv) reports the microplastic abundance in
biota samples (anchovies, redeye round herring and sardines) collected and
analysed in South Africa in 2019. The file contains data of the samples
weight, length and number of microplastic items found. Fish is ordered by
'stratum' (geographical reference, please see
South_Africa_Biota_Microplastics_Strata.doc). Fish of the same species in the
same stratum were also stored in bags and a blank was measured in the lab to
assess contamination while working with specimens from the same bag. Blank
values are also reported. in the file. The file also reports information for
each sample. Since fish populations were homogeneous in size and shape, body
weight and length were recorded for only 5 individuals per bag, and averaged
values are reported for all fish from that bag. Stomach weight was measured
individually for all specimens. For sardines in strata E and F the lengths and
weights of each fish were measured, allowing for further analysis on the
health effects of microplastics in sardines. The file
South_Africa_Biota_Microplastics_FishMeasurements.csv reports body weights and
length of the specimen actually measured in each bag. A third file
(South_Africa_Biota_Microplastics_FTIR.csv) contains the profiles of the
ATR-FT-IR spectrum analysis of plastic pieces found in the fish stomachs.,
plus two profiles of known plastic for quality check A README text file
contains the legend of the columns of the three csv files.
The pictures of the plastic particles analysed with ATR-FT-IR can be obtained
inquiring the data steward.