Studies on the Impact of Microplastics in Freshwater Systems: Biota Could Be Vital Indicators in Delta State, Nigeria

Microplastics have impacted freshwater system globally. Despite the global concern about microplastic pollution, only a little is evidenced in research on the occurrence and intensity of pollution in research. This study determined the effects of microplastics on aquatic water bodies was determined using plants as bio-indicator. The study was conducted bimonthly (June- August) to examine the occurrence of microplastics. Physicochemical parameters and biochemical parameters of plants were analyzed using standard methods. Hydrogen ion concentrations of the water sources were mildly acidic (5.6±0.15 and 5.49±0.19), and turbidity levels were notably high (71.00±4.20 NTU and 92.70 ±4.32 NTU) in lotic and lentic water bodies respectively. Dissolved oxygen and biological oxygen demand were significantly compared within aquatic systems (p<0.05). Water hyacinth- Pontederia crassipes Mart (former Eichhornia crassipes) exhibited higher levels of soluble sugar at 110.34±3.32 mg/L in lotic water body compared to water leaf- Talinum triangulare (Jacq.) Willd, 70.44±4.78 mg/L in lentic water. Total chlorophyll levels and water retention capacity were lower in lotic water at 37.90±2.35 and 2.08±0.21 respectively. Ascorbic acid levels were higher in lotic water (308.00±12.34 mg/100g). Chironomus sp. and Nais sp. were commonly encountered. The vital role of Chironomus sp. and Nais sp. should not be underestimated as bioindicators in freshwater systems. Hence, they should be further investigated in different freshwater ecosystems.