Adverse Impacts of Microplastics on Animal Health

Microplastic (MP) pollution has emerged as a global environmental challenge, with profound implications for various animal species inhabiting diverse ecosystems. The authors of this chapter explore the adverse effects of MPs on the health of insects, aquatic fauna, birds, cattle, and mice. Aquatic and terrestrial insects, prone to MP ingestion, encounter digestive tract obstruction, and malnutrition. The bioaccumulation of MPs in these insects extends risks to predators up the food chain. In aquatic fauna like fish and crustaceans, physical harm, and toxicity arise as MPs accumulate in tissues, carrying absorbed contaminants. Birds face compromised digestive systems and reproductive challenges from MP ingestion and entanglement, with potential risks in the food chain. Cattle that ingest MPs can suffer digestive complications, raising concerns about particle translocation to milk and meat. Small mammals like mice experience health issues and behavioral changes due to MP exposure, emphasizing the broad-reaching impacts on animal health across ecosystems. This chapter highlights the multifaceted adverse impacts of MPs on animals, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive waste management strategies and a reduction in plastic usage to mitigate these environmental and health risks.