<![CDATA[Plastic waste from coastal settlements, fisheries, and marine activities has become a major source of microplastic pollution in the Tamarunang Waters of Jeneponto Regency, where filter-feeding brown mussels (Modiolus modulaides) readily accumulate microplastics. This study evaluated the effectiveness of microplastic depuration using a pump-circulation system with a natural bioadsorbent. A quantitative experimental approach with a completely randomized design (CRD) was employed, comprising five treatments: a control (no depuration) and depuration periods of 1, 2, 3, and 4 days, each replicated three times. Mussels were collected using purposive sampling from sites with high mussel abundance and potential plastic contamination. Of 810 mussels collected, 405 individuals were analyzed (5 treatments × 3 replications × 27 mussels). Data were analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and linear regression. The novelty of this study lies in the use of mashed kepok banana peels as a natural bioadsorbent. The lowest microplastic content was observed after four days of depuration. Although three- and four-day periods showed no significant difference, both were significantly more effective than shorter depuration periods. Depuration efficiency increased from 47.825% at day 0 to 94.132% after four days. Fragments, fibers, and films were the dominant types of microplastics. These findings demonstrate that a banana peel bioadsorbent, combined with a circulation system, effectively reduces microplastic contamination and provides a sustainable, low-cost depuration method. Future studies should validate this approach under commercial-scale and field conditions while assessing its effects on mussel quality and food safety.]]>
