How widespread are microplastics in plant nectar and in the bodies of pollinators in different natural habitats?
The fieldwork aims at having a general overview of the actual presence of microplastics in the nectar of plants and in the bodies of pollinators in different real situations, ranging from the most preserved areas to anthropized environments.
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Field monitoring campaigns are planned in various areas, mainly in central Italy. The study sites were selected following a gradient of anthropogenic disturbance and, presumably, different microplastic contamination in the soil.
Undisturbed natural areas
Integral Natural Reserves, strictly proteted areas and islands in the Tuscan Archipelago National Park (Tyrrhenian Sea)
Moderately disturbed areas
Rural areas/islands characterized by few inhabitants and tourists, protected areas with limited daily access to tourists
Disturbed areas
Agricultural lands, urban parks, areas near harbours
Study site categories
Determination of microplastics in the samples collected
Nectar
Pollen pellet from legs of bees and bumblebees
Soil