Spatial distribution, composition, and rainfall-driven dynamics of marine litter along the Sea of Oman, Sultanate of Oman

The problem of marine litter is becoming more and more widespread, having an adverse effect on human health, the economy, and marine ecosystems. The distribution and characteristics of marine litter in the Sea of Oman along the Omani coast are investigated in this study. Barka, Seeb, Ghubra, and Qurm are the four coastal localities from which marine litter data were collected from 7200 m2 area. The mean abundance of the marine litter was 0.31 items per m2. Plastics accounted for the highest abundance of marine litter (62%), followed by fabric (13%), foam (4%), and glass (1%). A total of 67,588.90 g of marine litter was collected during the study period, with fabric contributing the highest weight (31,659.20 g), followed by plastic (23,689.83 g) and processed wood (3753.59 g). Heavy rainfall on April 16, 2024, increased coastal litter at Ghubra and Qurm by transporting debris from inland areas, though human activity and municipal management also influenced distribution. The study also emphasizes that the package bottled water contribute highest marine litter among all other marine litter types in the Sea of Oman. The results highlight how urgently better litter management procedures and more public awareness are needed to lessen the negative impacts of marine litter.