A study, using fluorescent microplastic beads, has shown that the larval forms of mosquito that live in freshwater and filter feed on algae take up these now almost ubiquitous pollutants and retain them in their bodies when they become blood-sucking (the females) or juice drinkers (the males) adults (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2018/sep/19/microplastics-can-spread-via-flying-insects-research-shows). As the adults are fed up by larger organisms such as dragonflies as well as insectivorous birds and bats, this means that the microplastics are reaching areas that other environmental contaminants cannot reach!
This blog may help people explore some of the 'hidden' issues involved in certain media treatments of environmental and scientific issues. Using personal digital images, it's also intended to emphasise seasonal (and other) changes in natural history of the Swansea (South Wales) area. The material should help participants in field-based modules and people generally interested in the natural world. The views are wholly those of the author.
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