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Updated: Jun 28, 2026
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Sampling, Sorting, and Characterizing Microplastics in Aquatic Environments with High Suspended Sediment Loads and Large Floating Debris
Published on: July 28, 2018
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Microplastics Induced Dysfunctions in Physiology and Behavior of Fish: A Comprehensive Review
Md Asad Ud Zahan Siddique1, Md Sayem Sheikh1, Md Shahjahan1
1Department of Fisheries Management, Laboratory of Fish Ecophysiology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh, bau.edu.bd.
Journal of Toxicology
|April 9, 2026
Summary
Microplastics (MPs) pollution harms fish by impairing growth, reproduction, and behavior. This review synthesizes evidence on MPs
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Ecotoxicology
- Aquatic Biology
Background:
- Microplastic (MP) pollution is a pervasive global issue impacting aquatic ecosystems.
- Fish are particularly vulnerable dueD to their feeding behaviors and ecological roles.
- Understanding the physiological and behavioral impacts of MPs on fish is crucial for ecological risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically review and synthesize existing evidence on the disruptions caused by microplastics in fish.
- To elucidate the mechanistic pathways and biological consequences of microplastic exposure in fish.
- To provide a comprehensive summary for informing management strategies for microplastic pollution.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review and meta-analysis of studies on microplastic impacts on fish.
- Integration of data on MP sources, transport pathways, and their effects on fish physiology and behavior.
- Analysis of mechanistic pathways, including gastrointestinal damage, metabolic stress, oxidative stress, and neurotoxicity.
Main Results:
- Microplastics cause significant adverse effects on fish health, including growth inhibition and impaired nutrient absorption.
- Hematobiochemical disruptions, such as anemia and immune suppression, are linked to oxidative stress.
- Reproductive performance is compromised, with effects on gonadal development, endocrine function, and offspring viability.
- Behavioral alterations, including reduced swimming and feeding performance, are associated with neurotoxicity and metabolic impairment.
Conclusions:
- Microplastics substantially compromise fish physiology and behavior, leading to reduced growth, altered blood profiles, impaired reproduction, and behavioral changes.
- The review highlights species-specific effects but emphasizes the overall significant negative impacts on fish populations.
- Findings underscore the need for effective management strategies to mitigate microplastic pollution in aquatic environments.
