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Microplastics in lakes: Distribution patterns and influencing factors
Sijia Liang1, Jianchao Liu2, Meijun Bao1
1Nanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Nanjing 210042, China.
Journal of Hazardous Materials
|April 26, 2025
Summary
Microplastics (MPs) are widespread in lakes, with higher concentrations near human activity and water inflows. Their distribution is influenced by lake dynamics, particle characteristics, and seasonal changes, impacting freshwater ecosystems.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Ecotoxicology
- Freshwater Ecology
Background:
- Microplastics (MPs) are emerging pollutants of global concern due to their ubiquity and ecological risks.
- Lakes, vital freshwater resources, are susceptible to microplastic contamination, yet their distribution patterns remain poorly understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize global research on microplastic distribution patterns in lakes.
- To identify key factors influencing microplastic distribution and characteristics within lake ecosystems.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive analysis of 84 field studies from 64 lakes worldwide.
- Examination of microplastic abundance, characteristics, and influencing factors (hydrodynamics, wind, human activity, seasonality).
Main Results:
- Microplastic abundance is highest near human activity and water inflows; hydrodynamics and wind also play roles.
- Microplastic characteristics (shape, size, color, polymer type) vary with source, transport, and degradation.
- Surface concentrations fluctuate seasonally, while sediment cores show increasing microplastic accumulation over time.
Conclusions:
- Microplastic distribution in lakes is complex, influenced by multiple environmental and intrinsic factors.
- Knowledge gaps exist regarding vertical and temporal microplastic variations, necessitating standardized methods.
- Findings support improved understanding of microplastic fate and risk assessment in freshwater ecosystems.
