A study from the University of Exeter published today in the journal Scientific Reports shows that 67% of the 46 sharks analyzed contained microplastics and other man-made fibre in their digestive system.

Scientists studied four species of demersal sharks that live near the seabed off the UK coast. A total of 379 particles were found and, though the impact on the sharks’ health is unknown, the researchers say it highlights the “pervasive nature of plastic pollution”.

In response to the study, Will McCallum, head of Oceans for Greenpeace UK said:

“Our addiction to plastics combined with the lack of mechanisms to protect our oceans is suffocating marine life. Sharks sit on top of the marine food web and play a vital role in ocean ecosystems. Yet, they are completely exposed to pollutants and other human impactful activities. We need to stop producing so much plastic and create a network of ocean sanctuaries to give wildlife space to recover. The ocean is not our dump, marine life deserves better than plastic.”