According to researchers at Germany’s University of Bonn, taking a cue from the animals’ filtration systems might help remove the vast majority of harmful plastic particulates from washing machine wastewater. Researchers estimate a washing machine in a four-person home produces as much as 500 grams of microplastics every year due to textile abrasion and deterioration. The fish gill filter system relies on rakers covered in microscopic denticles. The team suggests that with minor alterations to a washing machine, the appliance could ultimately press the plastic to remove excess water before molding it into a pellet. With a patent now pending, the team hopes washing machine manufacturers will soon help improve the system and integrate them into their own products.