The Impact of Microplastics on Filter-Feeding Megafauna

The Mediterranean basin, a worldwide biodiversity hotspot, as previously underlined, is one of the world seas most affected by marine litter, including microplastics [1–3]. Recent studies in the different regions of the basin suggest that some areas, including important MPAs and Specially Protected Areas of Mediterranean Importance (SPAMI) such as the Pelagos Sanctuary, are affected by important concentrations of microplastics and plastic additives, representing a potential risk for endangered species (baleen whales, sea turtles, filter feeder sharks) [4–10] living in this area and for the all Mediterranean biodiversity [11–14]. In this paper we reconstruct the scientific story of the invisible war between the charismatic megafauna (baleen whales, filter feeder sharks and manta rays) against the smallest marine debris (microplastics) and their potential toxicological effects.