Does microplastic ingestion by zooplankton affect predator-prey interactions? An experimental study on larviphagy

Area of Science:

• Marine Biology
• Ecotoxicology
• Oceanography

Background:

• Ocean litter, particularly microplastics (MPs), is widespread and ingested by marine organisms.
• Understanding the ecological impact of MPs requires knowledge of their effects on predator-prey interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the trophic transfer of MPs from zooplankton to benthic filter feeders.
• To determine how MP ingestion affects predator-prey interactions and behavior.

Main Methods:

• Demonstrated trophic transfer of MPs through contaminated prey.
• Compared predation rates on MP-contaminated prey versus uncontaminated prey.
• Assessed filter feeder clearance rates after MP consumption.

Main Results:

• Microplastics were successfully transferred from zooplankton to benthic filter feeders.
• Predation rates on MP-contaminated prey were significantly lower than on uncontaminated prey.
• Filter feeder clearance rates were unaffected by MP consumption, indicating behavioral changes in prey.

Conclusions:

• Microplastic ingestion by zooplankton disrupts their swimming behavior, reducing their vulnerability to filter feeders.
• This behavioral disruption alters predator-prey interactions, impacting the pelagic-benthic coupling in marine ecosystems.
• This study provides novel insights into the ecological consequences of microplastic pollution on marine food webs.