IMPACT OF MICROPLASTIC ON AQUATIC ANIMALS: SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FISHES

Abstract

Concerns about the ecological effects of microplastics plastic particles smaller than five millimetres have grown as a common source of contamination in aquatic environments. The particular impacts of microplastics on fish are the subject of this abstract, which discusses ingestion, bioaccumulation, physiological reactions, and possible ramifications for fish populations and ecosystems. Microplastics find their way into aquatic habitats from a variety of sources, including the decomposition of bigger plastic objects, synthetic fabrics, and goods derived from plastic. Due to their tiny size and persistent nature, these anthropogenic particles are widely dispersed, exposing aquatic organisms especially fish to them. Fish come into contact with microplastics both directly and indirectly when they eat contaminated prey. Ingestion of microplastics may have a variety of negative effects, from actual digestive system damage to the possible buildup of harmful compounds in fish tissues. Concerns about the possibility for biomagnification at higher trophic levels and the long-term repercussions on personal health are raised by fish's absorption of microplastics. Microplastics may have detrimental physiological consequences on fish, including inflammation, tissue damage, and changes in metabolic systems. These physiological effects are made worse by microplastics' ability to absorb and concentrate toxins from the surrounding water, which adds to the total stress that fish populations are under. The ecological ramifications affect whole aquatic ecosystems in addition to individual fish. Microplastics have the potential to upset food chains, change predator-prey relationships, and have an impact on aquatic ecosystem health and biodiversity in general. It is crucial to comprehend these intricate relationships in order to develop management and conservation plans that work. Research in the fields of ecotoxicology, fisheries science, and environmental chemistry must be multidisciplinary in order to address the effects of microplastics on fish. Reducing plastic inputs, creating sustainable substitutes, and implementing strong waste management procedures should be the top priorities of mitigation initiatives. In the end, preserving fish populations' health is essential to keeping aquatic ecosystems resilient and in balance in the face of increasing microplastic contamination.