<![CDATA[Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 5 mm that are commonly found in aquatic environments as a result of plastic waste degradation and have the potential to disrupt marine ecosystems. Putri Klayar Beach, Lamongan Regency, which is utilized for tourism and fishing activities and includes relatively natural areas, has the potential to become a site of microplastic accumulation. This study aimed to identify the morphology and abundance of microplastics in seawater along the coast of Putri Klayar Beach. The study employed a quantitative descriptive method with purposive sampling at three stations representing different levels of human activity, with three seawater samples collected at each station. Microplastic analysis included filtration, density separation using NaCl solution, organic matter degradation using 30% HNO₃, and identification using a stereo microscope. A total of 22 microplastic particles were identified, consisting of 9 particles at Station 1, 7 at Station 2, and 6 at Station 3, with four morphological types: fiber, fragment, film, and foam. Fiber was the most dominant type, accounting for 18 particles (81.8%), followed by foam with 2 particles (9.1%), fragment with 1 particle (4.5%), and film with 1 particle (4.5%). The highest microplastic abundance was found at Station 1, with 3 particles/L, followed by Station 2 with 2.33 particles/L and Station 3 with 2 particles/L. These results indicate that the waters of Putri Klayar Beach have been contaminated with microplastics, with fiber being the dominant morphology, which is suspected to be associated with human activities in the coastal area.]]>
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