Nanoplastics in Aquatic Ecosystems: Impact, Toxicity, Detection, and Remediation Strategies

ABSTRACT Nanoplastics (NPs) are increasingly recognized as persistent contaminants in aquatic ecosystems, raising critical concerns for environmental and ecological health. This article synthesizes current knowledge on the impact of NPs in freshwater and marine environments. The contrasting behaviors of NPs across lakes, rivers, and oceans are discussed alongside transformation processes, including photodegradation, biodegradation, and chemical alteration, which contribute to their long‐term persistence. Special attention is given to ecotoxicological impacts on aquatic organisms, including bioaccumulation, biomagnification, and cellular‐level toxicity, with evidence of oxidative stress, reproductive impairment, and neurotoxicity. Advances in detection and characterization methods, from spectroscopic and microscopic techniques to mass spectrometry‐based approaches, are outlined to address analytical challenges. Emerging strategies for nanoplastic removal, including membrane processes, advanced oxidation, and biodegradation, are also considered. Collectively, this work provides an integrated perspective on the environmental dynamics, toxicological risks, and management approaches for nanoplastics, guiding future monitoring and mitigation efforts.