We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Emergence of nanoplastics in the aquatic environment and possible impacts on aquatic organisms
Summary
This review summarizes current knowledge on nanoplastics in aquatic environments, finding them present in seas, rivers, and nature reserves across multiple continents at measurable levels. These extremely small plastic particles accumulate in aquatic organisms and cause growth problems, reproductive issues, and immune dysfunction, raising concerns about human exposure through contaminated seafood and drinking water.
Plastic production on a global scale is instrumental in advancing modern society. However, plastic can be broken down by mechanical and chemical forces of humans and nature, and knowledge of the fate and effects of plastic, especially nanoplastics, in the aquatic environment remains poor. We provide an overview of current knowledge on the environmental occurrence and toxicity of nanoplastics, and suggestions for future research. There are nanoplastics present in seas, rivers, and nature reserves from Asia, Europe, Antarctica, and the Arctic Ocean at levels of 0.3-488 microgram per liter. Once in the aquatic environment, nanoplastics accumulate in plankton, nekton, benthos through ingestion and adherence, with multiple toxic results including inhibited growth, reproductive abnormalities, oxidative stress, and immune system dysfunction. Further investigations should focus on chemical analysis methods for nanoplastics, effect and mechanism of nanoplastics at environmental relevant concentrations in aquatic organisms, as well as the mechanism of the Trojan horse effect of nanoplastics.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Effects of micro- and nanoplastics on aquatic ecosystems: Current research trends and perspectives
This review covers 83 studies on the distribution and toxic effects of micro- and nanoplastics in both marine and freshwater ecosystems worldwide. Researchers found that these tiny particles affected the growth, development, behavior, reproduction, and survival of a wide range of aquatic organisms. The paper identifies key research gaps and suggests future directions for understanding the full ecological impact of plastic pollution in aquatic environments.
Plastic pollution in the aquatic ecosystem: an emerging threat need to be tackled
This review summarizes the growing threat of plastic pollution in aquatic ecosystems, with a focus on how microplastics and nanoplastics enter food webs starting at the lowest levels. The authors highlight the persistence of these particles and call for coordinated action to reduce plastic inputs to water bodies.
Nanoplastics in water
This paper examines the presence and behavior of nanoplastics, extremely small plastic particles, in water environments. Understanding how these particles move through and persist in water is important for assessing potential risks to aquatic ecosystems and human health.
An overview of the effects of nanoplastics on marine organisms
This review summarizes current knowledge about how nanoplastics affect marine organisms, from plankton to fish. Researchers highlight that these extremely small plastic particles are difficult to detect and measure, meaning their true environmental presence is likely underestimated. The study warns that the effects of nanoplastics on marine life could indirectly impact human health through the seafood supply chain.
Microplastics and Nanoplastics in Aquatic Environment
This review examines the origins, transport pathways, and toxic impacts of microplastics and nanoplastics in aquatic environments, tracing debris from diverse land-based and marine sources. Researchers found that plastic fragmentation produces ubiquitous micro- and nano-scale particles throughout ocean systems, with documented toxicity to marine organisms and potential risks to human consumers of seafood.