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Microplastic toxicity in fish: A potential review on sources, impacts, and solution
Md Towhidul Islam1, Uttam Biswas Antu1, Md Shifat Hossain1
1Department of Soil Science, Patuakhali Science and Technology University, Dumki, Patuakhali, 8602, Bangladesh.
Aquatic Toxicology (Amsterdam, Netherlands)
|July 25, 2025
Summary
Microplastics contaminate aquatic environments and seafood, impacting fish health and posing risks to humans. Solutions require reducing plastic waste, improving wastewater treatment, and global cooperation to address this environmental concern.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Ecotoxicology
- Food Safety
Background:
- Microplastic pollution is a significant global environmental issue.
- Aquatic ecosystems and seafood are particularly vulnerable to microplastic contamination.
- Understanding microplastic sources, impacts, and solutions is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the sources of microplastics in fish.
- To examine the effects of microplastics on fish health and behavior.
- To assess human health risks and explore mitigation strategies for microplastic pollution.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific studies on microplastics in aquatic environments.
- Analysis of data on microplastic sources, accumulation in fish, and biological effects.
- Evaluation of current and proposed solutions for microplastic pollution reduction.
Main Results:
- Microplastics originate from plastic debris breakdown, wastewater, industry, landfills, and agriculture.
- Fish accumulate microplastics via trophic level, habitat, and feeding, causing physical harm, reduced growth, hormonal disruption, and behavioral changes.
- Human health risks include chemical leaching and toxin absorption from contaminated seafood.
Conclusions:
- Mitigation requires reducing plastic waste, enhancing wastewater treatment, and developing sustainable materials.
- Critical research gaps exist regarding long-term ecological effects.
- Standardized methods, global collaboration, and innovative solutions are needed to combat microplastic pollution.
