ASIAN CLAMS AS BIOINDICATORS FOR MICROPLASTICS IN TENNESSEE FRESHWATER

This research investigates the reliability of Corbicula flumenia (Asian Clams) as bioindicators for microplastic (MP) contamination in freshwater ecosystems of Tennessee. With their widespread presence and efficient filtration abilities, these non-native clams offer a potential tool for assessing the extent of MP pollution. The study compares MP content in C. flumenia tissues with the MP content in water at two distinct sites characterized by differing sizes and water quality: Ten Mile Creek (smaller and lower quality) and the Nolichucky River (larger and higher quality). Through a systematic sampling approach, involving quadrat excavation and water collection, the correlation between MP contamination in clams and water were examined and analyzed to provide insight into the efficacy of invasive species like C. flumenia as indicators of MP contamination in varying levels of pollution. The expected outcome was a statistical difference in populations between the two sites, establishing correlations between MP contamination in water and C. flumenia tissues, thereby supporting the potential of these clans as reliable bioindicators for MP pollution in freshwater ecosystems. The results of this work support the further use of invasive species in potential freshwater contamination research instead of native bivalves with dwindling populations.