The distribution of pelagic tars and plastics in the south Atlantic bight

Pelagic tars and plastics were sampled on six MARMAP cruises in the southeastern continental shelf and slope waters of the United States using a Boothbay neuston net. Both tars and plastic beads were widespread throughout the study area and the incidence of these contaminants increased offshore. Distribution patterns appeared to be related to currents. Average tar and plastic concentrations obtained on recent cruises were similar to concentrations noted in previous MARMAP sampling programmes along the northwestern Atlantic and Gulf coasts.