Bivalves are the focus of experimental research as they can filtrate a broad size range of microplastics (MPs) with negative consequences for their physiology. Studies use a range of MP shapes, materials, sizes and concentrations raising the question on whether these reflect environmental observations. We review experimental studies on the effects of MPs on marine bivalves and contrast the MP characteristics used with corresponding data from the environment. Mussels were the most common bivalve across experiments which reflect their high abundance and broad distribution in the field. Although fibres are the dominant shape of MPs in coastal systems, most studies focus on spherules and beads, and MP concentrations are often orders of magnitude higher than environmental levels. For higher relevance of experimental findings we recommend that maximum experimental concentrations of MPs are in the range of 100–1000 particles/L, that there is more focus on microfibers and that concentration is reported in particles/volume.

双壳类动物是实验研究的重点，因为它们可以过滤各种尺寸的微塑料 (MP)，对其生理产生负面影响。研究使用了一系列 MP 形状、材料、尺寸和浓度，提出了这些是否反映环境观察的问题。我们回顾了 MP 对海洋双壳类动物影响的实验研究，并将 MP 特征与来自环境的相应数据进行了对比。贻贝是整个实验中最常见的双壳类动物，这反映了它们在该领域的高丰度和广泛分布。尽管纤维是沿海系统中 MP 的主要形状，但大多数研究都集中在小球和珠子上，而且 MP 浓度通常比环境水平高几个数量级。