Microplastics Found in Local Fish from Shepherdstown Streams

WVU study shows up to hundreds of microplastics particles in north-central WV fish
Charleston Gazette-Mail | Tuesday, July 22, 2025
A recent study from West Virginia University, reported by the Charleston Gazette-Mail, reveals that northern hogsucker fish collected from streams in the area, including those near Shepherdstown, show significant contamination with microplastics. The research, led by biology student Isabella Tuzzio, highlights the alarming presence of these tiny plastic particles, which result from the breakdown of larger plastic items and can be traced back to pollution sources in everyday life. This study underscores the environmental challenges local aquatic ecosystems face, emphasizing the need for awareness and action in nearby communities.