Microplastics in Aquatic Ecosystems: Impacts on Fish Health and Potential Risks to Human Health

Gaurav Kumar, Gourav Ranjan Padhi, Roshan Kumar Ram, G.N. Jha and S. Bidyasagar Singh

College of Fisheries (RPCAU), Dholi, Muzaffarpur- 843121, Bihar, India

*Corresponding author email: roshan.cof@rpcau.ac.in

doi.org/10.5281/FishWorld.22790795

Abstract

Marine ecosystems are affected by both micro and macroplastic pollution, which is a major environmental concern. Fish and other marine organisms may suffer physical and metabolic damage if they consume these particles. Microplastics (MPs) can build up in fish and result in digestive obstructions, stunted growth, and altered behaviour. Significantly, exposure to microplastics impairs physiological processes, such as redox or oxidative stress, alters reproductive health, and harms the liver and gills. Through a contaminated food chain, microplastics can find their way into the human food chain; their widespread presence in aquatic food chains underscores their potential to impact biodiversity and human health. Global initiatives are needed to address the problem, including cutting back on plastic production, increasing recycling, and upgrading wastewater treatment systems to lessen the negative effects of microplastic pollution.