Determination of microplastics in termites (dictyoptera: isoptera)

This study was conducted to determine the presence of microplastics in termites (Dictyoptera: Isoptera). This study also aims to characterize the microplastics within termites, collected in Kampung Bukit Jering, as well as to verify the presence of microplastics in termites. Microplastics have already been recognized as a significant environmental and human health issue. Microplastics from termite samples were extracted from dead coconut trunks and then characterized using ATR-FTIR to determine the microplastic composition. Based on the spectrum, the extracted microplastics in each samples were confirmed as Polyethylene and Polyester. Then, an optical microscope was used to determine the color and shape of the microbeads. Microplastics found in the external termite's body parts are fibers. Hence, this study proved the presence of microplastics in termites.