Impacts of Microplastics on Zooplankton

Abstract

In the aquatic food chain, microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous. The presence of microplastics in water and the physicochemical properties of water can likely affect aquatic biota. The physicochemical environment determines the structure of zooplankton community. The pollution of aquatic ecosystems by microplastics is widespread. Aquatic zooplankton and various larger animal species (reptiles, birds, mammals) have been affected due to consumption of plastic fibres through food chains. Concentration of aquatic pollution increasing day by day with microplastics resulting from urban sewage discharges, industrial effluents, and anthropogenic activities. Microplastics are absorbed by fish that consume plankton, which is amplified by other organisms. In total, we have surveyed 57 research papers on microplastics in zooplankton. Zooplankton diversity of an area can be used to assess water contamination, particularly nutrient-rich eutrophication of that particular area. Microplastics may interfere with the production of endocrinological hormones in humans. In future, this will be a great hazard to human beings. Microplastic (<5mm in length) may be polyethene or polypropylene or polystyrene in nature and may be white or red or blue in colour. The study examines the water, the importance of zooplankton to the aquatic ecosystem, and the microplastic concentration report. As a result of this assessment, national and international authorities will be able to assess a range of stakeholders, make decisions and build policies that will benefit many stakeholders.