Faure, FlorianSaini, CamillePotter, GaëlGalgani, FrancoisDe Alencastro, Luiz FelippeHagmann, Pascal2015-08-132015-08-132015-08-13201510.1007/s11356-015-4453-3https://infoscience.epfl.ch/handle/20.500.14299/117028WOS:000358579700022This study examines the distribution, abundance and characteristics of surface micro- and mesoplastic debris in the Western Mediterranean Sea. 41 samples were collected in 2011 (summer) and 2012 (summer). Results, firstly, revealed that micro- (<5mm) and mesoplastic debriswere widely and uniformly distributed in this area with average concentrations of 130,000 parts/km2 and 5700 parts/km2, respectively. Importantly, a strong correlation between micro- and mesoplastic concentrations was identified. Secondly, a classification based on the shape and appearance of microplastics indicated the predominant presence of fragments (73 %) followed by thin films (14 %). Thirdly, the average mass ratio of microplastic to dry organic matter has been measured at 0.5, revealing a significant presence of microplastics in comparison to plankton. Finally, a correction method was applied in order to correct wind mixing effect on microplastics’ vertical distribution. This data allows for a comprehensive view, for the first time, of the spatial distribution and nature of plastic debris in the Western Mediterranean Sea.Plastic debrisMarine pollutionMediterranean SeaSurface net towMicroplastic pollutionNeustonic plastictext::journal::journal article::research article