We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Ecotoxicological perspectives of microplastic pollution in amphibians
AI summary Read the abstract
This review summarizes research on how microplastics affect amphibians, which are considered important indicator species for freshwater pollution. Researchers found evidence that microplastics can impair amphibian growth, immune function, and gene expression, with effects varying by species and particle characteristics. The findings raise concerns about the vulnerability of amphibian populations already threatened by habitat loss and other environmental stressors.
Microplastics (MPs) are contaminants widely distributed in the environment and biota. Previously, most studies focused on identifying and characterizing microplastics in the marine environment, while their impact on freshwater ecosystems remains to be determined. This review summarizes recent findings regarding MPs physiological, immunological, and genetic effects on amphibians based upon the biological relevance of this species as indicators of freshwater pollution. Data demonstrated that MPs contamination may potentially alter various physiological processes in aquatic animals, mainly in the embryonic stages. It is worthwhile noting that adverse effects might be enhanced in synergy with other pollutants. However, amphibians might counteract the effect of MPs and other pollutants through microbiota present both in the intestine and on the skin. In addition, amphibian microbial composition might also be altered by MPs themselves in a manner that leads to unpredicted health consequences in amphibians.
More Papers Like This
Microplastics as an emerging threat to amphibians: Current status and future perspectives
AI summary Read the abstract
This review summarizes existing research on microplastic contamination in amphibians like frogs and salamanders, finding that over 80% of studied species had accumulated microplastics. The particles persisted in organs, showed toxic and gene-damaging effects, and could transfer through the food chain. Since amphibians are indicators of environmental health, widespread microplastic accumulation in these animals signals broader ecosystem contamination that can ultimately affect human food and water sources.
Variation in microplastic characteristics among amphibian larvae: a comparative study across different species and the influence of human activity
AI summary Read the abstract
Scientists examined microplastics inside amphibian larvae from 10 species and found plastic particles in all of them, with blue fibers being the most common type. Larger larvae tended to contain longer plastic fragments, and there was a relationship between human activity levels near habitats and the characteristics of the plastics found. This study shows that microplastic contamination has penetrated freshwater food webs, affecting animals during their most vulnerable developmental stages.
Ecotoxicity of microplastics to freshwater biota: Considering exposure and hazard across trophic levels
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examines the toxic effects of microplastics on freshwater organisms across multiple levels of the food web, from biofilms and plankton to fish and amphibians. Researchers found evidence of harm in several species, though effects varied widely depending on particle size, type, and concentration. The study highlights that freshwater microplastic toxicity is still poorly understood compared to marine environments and calls for more standardized research.
Effects of micro(nano)plastics on amphibian cell lines
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers tested the effects of micro- and nanoplastics on amphibian cell lines derived from multiple species, using cell-based methods as alternatives to whole-organism testing for initial toxicity screening. Plastic particles caused cytotoxic and genotoxic effects in amphibian cells, providing data relevant to conservation concerns for declining amphibian populations.
Effects of micro(nano)plastics on amphibian cell lines
AI summary Read the abstract
This study assessed the effects of micro- and nanoplastics on amphibian cell lines as an alternative model system for evaluating plastic toxicity, responding to growing concerns about particle impacts on amphibians and the value of cell-based testing. Plastic particles caused measurable cellular damage in amphibian cells, supporting their use as a screening tool.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.