Researchers identify “plasticoral” pollution on Japan's beaches

Researchers in Japan have identified a new form of marine pollution termed “plasticoral,” consisting of plastic that has thermally adhered to coral rubble. The discovery was made during routine marine litter surveys on Okinawa Island, including areas within the protected Yanbaru National Park.

Unlike plastiglomerates, where plastic is merely stuck to surfaces, “plasticorals” involve melted polymers that have liquidized and conformed to the intricate, porous skeletons of dead coral. Laboratory analysis identified the materials as polyethylene and polypropylene, which are commonly used in single-use bottles and food containers. Scientists suspect that beach fires may provide the heat necessary to melt the plastic into the coral structures.

This phenomenon raises significant environmental concerns, including potential chemical leaching, habitat degradation, and a new mechanism for microplastics to enter the marine ecosystem. Because the plastic and coral have become inseparable, the resulting debris could wash back into the sea, potentially impacting reef life.