Abstract

Microplastics are generated by the fragmentation of plastic that enters the oceans and is accidentally consumed by various species in the trophic chain. Otariids are considered bioindicators of the presence of microparticles in the environment; however, the level of impact in the coastal area of the Bio-bio region, Chile, is unknown. The aim of this work was to evaluate the presence of this polymer in faeces of sea lions ( Otaria flavescenses), in the 'La Poza' sector, commune of Talcahuano, Bio-bio region. Stool samples were collected, freeze-dried, digested and subsequently filtered to identify microplastics. Microfibres of various colours were found, with a predominance of black. It is concluded that sea lions were indicators of the circulation of microplastics in their food chain in the sampling area.