https://oceanexpert.net/expert/85675

ORCID : https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7406-5179

PhD Sc

Research

Biological Oceanography, Marine Ecology

IMPACTS OF MARINE PLASTIC POLLUTION ON OCEAN ECOLOGY AND BIOGEOCHEMISTRY IN MARINE ENVIRONMENT : EFFECTS ON BIODIVERSITY OF THIS ECOSYSTEM IN BENIN (WEST AFRICA) Abstract Plastic pollution has now become a global concern as plastic debris have reached all the oceans of the world with adverse effects on marine organisms and biodiversity. Ocean plastic pollution comes mainly from the fishing industry, nautical activities and aquaculture. Moreover, the low-density plastic particles which float on the sea surface concentrate the hydrophobic contaminants from the surrounding polluted seawater. Many countries lack the infrastructure to prevent plastic pollution. This is the case of Benin, where marine plastic pollution has never been the subject of a study. This motivates this research. To assess marine ecology, an inventory of marine biodiversity species was first made. Afterwards, five ecological indicators were identified, including pressures, physical parameters, biological structure, functional structure and ecological models. To assess marine biogeochemistry, we used the BLING model (use of nutrients and light gases to iron) model. To identify marine contaminants, we carried out physiocochemical and biochemical analyses and experiments. To achieve that, an methodology have been adopted. For Sustainable Ocean Observing, we used the Glogal Ocean Observing System (GOOS) which provides data and data products, accurate and timely forecasts of weather, climate, and ocean. The results of this study reveal that the impacts of plastic debris on the environment are the ingestion, choking and entanglement of hundreds of marine species. Marine wildlife such as seabirds, sea toture ,whales, fish and turtles mistake plastic waste for prey. Most then starve to death, their stomachs filling with plastic. They also suffer from lacerations, infections, reduced ability to swim and internal injuries. In conclusion, marine plastic debris poses a variety of risks to marine life, including mammals, birds, turtles and fish, through ingestion, suffocation and entanglement. Ingested plastics clog digestive tracts leading to starvation of marine species, but also lead to a buildup of microplastics that can be transmitted along the food chain. . According to the biogeochemical , data analysis showed that the cycles are disruted. Plain-language Summary 1-Introduction Plastic pollution has now become a global concern as plastic debris have reached all the oceans of the world with adverse effects on marine organisms and biodiversity. This motivates this which research which aims to assess the impacts of plastic pollution on the marine environment through assessments of marine ecology and biogeochemistry with a view to define strategies to prevent it 2- Material and Methodology BLING Model and Glogal Ocean Observing System (GOOS) are used. 3- Results This study reveal that the impacts of plastic debris on the environment are the ingestion, choking and entanglement of hundreds of marine species. 4- Conclusion Marine plastic debris poses a variety of risks to marine life, including mammals, birds, turtles and fish, through ingestion, suffocation and entanglement. Ingested plastics clog digestive tracts leading to starvation of marine species 5- Recommendations Ocean plastics must be treated as part of the full plastic life cycle. Focus must be on protecting the ocean from plastic under global chemicals and waste regulations

South Atlantic Ocean

1. Proficiency in Marine Ecology Assessment I possess strong expertise in assessing marine ecological conditions, including conducting biodiversity inventories and evaluating key ecological indicators. My work demonstrates a solid ability to diagnose ecosystem pressures and monitor ecological health. 2. Advanced Competence in Marine Biogeochemistry Through the application of the BLING biogeochemical model, I have developed advanced skills in analyzing nutrient cycles, gas dynamics, and disruptions caused by plastic pollution. I am proficient in interpreting complex biogeochemical datasets. 3. Expertise in Environmental Sampling and Laboratory Analysis My research required performing physicochemical and biochemical analyses to identify marine contaminants. I have therefore gained substantial experience in environmental sampling techniques, laboratory experimentation, and pollutant characterization. 4. Skilled Use of Global Ocean Observation Systems I am capable of effectively using international ocean monitoring platforms such as the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS). This includes obtaining, processing, and interpreting oceanographic data for scientific and environmental assessments. 5. Strong Research Design and Methodological Integration I designed and implemented a comprehensive methodology combining ecological assessment, biogeochemical modeling, and contaminant analysis. This reflects my ability to integrate multiple scientific approaches within a coherent research framework. 6. Capacity for Environmental Impact Assessment and Conservation Planning My analysis of the harmful effects of plastic pollution on marine biodiversity highlights my competence in environmental impact assessment. Additionally, I can formulate evidence-based conservation and mitigation strategies grounded in scientific analysis.

English

Other

https://share.google/mcQCT77XTLQM5Z00O

My research provides a timely and necessary contribution to understanding marine plastic pollution in Benin, a region where empirical data on this issue has been largely unavailable. By integrating ecological assessment, biogeochemical modeling, laboratory analyses, and global ocean observation systems, I adopt a rigorous interdisciplinary approach. The biodiversity inventory and the use of key ecological indicators offer an essential baseline for evaluating the pressures exerted on marine ecosystems. Through the application of the BLING biogeochemical model, I further demonstrate how plastic pollution disrupts nutrient dynamics and gas exchanges. The results clearly reveal the severe consequences of plastic debris, including ingestion, suffocation, entanglement, internal injuries, and the transfer of microplastics along the food web. These findings are consistent with global observations and underscore the urgent need for mitigation. The recommendations I propose emphasize the necessity of addressing ocean plastics within the full life-cycle framework and strengthening global regulatory measures. Overall, this work fills a critical knowledge gap and provides a scientific foundation for future conservation and policy initiatives in Benin’s marine environment.