Microplastics

Microplastic fragments in a sediment sample

Microplastics are small plastic particles (normally less than 5mm in diameter) in the oceans. They can enter the ocean directly; commonly in the form of microbeads found in facewash, soaps and shower creams (primary microplastics). Alternatively they may be produced from fragmentation of larger plastic particles (secondary microplastics). Microplastics take a long time to break down and the accumulation of toxic particles within the food chain poses a significant problem to ocean ecosystems.

Glossary of Galapagos