We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
The legacy effect of microplastics on aquatic animals in the depuration phase: Kinetic characteristics and recovery potential
Summary
A meta-analysis of microplastic depuration studies across 68 kinetic curves from aquatic animals found that many species retain a fraction of ingested MPs even after prolonged exposure-free periods, with retention rates and recovery timelines varying by species and MP type. The findings highlight the legacy effects of microplastic exposure that persist after contamination ends.
The prevalence of microplastics (MPs) in global aquatic environments has received considerable attention. Currently, concerns have been raised regarding reports that the adverse effect of MPs on aquatic animals in the exposure phase may not be (completely) reversed in the depuration phase. In order to provide insights into the legacy effect of MPs from the depuration phase, this study evaluated the kinetic characteristics and recovery potential of aquatic animals after the exposure to MPs. More specifically, a total of 68 depuration kinetic curves were highly fitted to estimate the retention time of MPs. It was shown that the retention time ranged from 1.26 to 3.01 days, corresponding to the egestion of 90 % to 99 % of ingested MPs. The retention time decreased with the increased retention rate. Furthermore, variables potentially affecting the retention time were ranked by the decision tree-based eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) algorithm, suggesting that the particle size and tested species were of great importance for explaining the difference in retention time of MPs. Moreover, a biomarker profile was recompiled to determine the toxic changes. Results indicated that the MPs-induced toxicity significantly reduced in the depuration phase, evidenced by the recovery of energy reserves and metabolism, hepatotoxicity, immunotoxicity, hematological parameters, neurotoxicity and oxidative stress. However, the continuous detoxification and remarkable genotoxicity implied that the toxicity was not completely alleviated. In addition, the current knowledge gaps are also highlighted, with recommendations proposed for future research.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Beyond the exposure phase: Microplastic depuration and experimental implications
This review systematically analyzed studies of microplastic depuration in aquatic organisms, focusing on how long plastic particles are retained after exposure ends. The authors found that depuration kinetics vary by species, particle size, and polymer type, and that current studies inadequately characterize post-exposure clearance.
Microplastic accumulation, depuration dynamics and localization in environmental compartments: combination of experimental set ups and field studies
Researchers used microcosm experiments to track microplastic accumulation, depuration, and tissue localization in marine organisms under environmentally relevant conditions. The study found that organisms can accumulate and partially depurate microplastics, with particle retention varying by tissue type and particle size.
Microplastics in aquatic organisms: Improving understanding and identifying research directions for the next decade
This meta-analysis reviews a decade of research on microplastic ingestion by aquatic organisms, from tiny plankton to large fish. It identifies major knowledge gaps, including the long-term health effects of ingestion and what happens as microplastics move up the food chain toward human consumers.
Microplastic accumulation, depuration dynamics and localization in environmental compartments: combination of experimental set ups and field studies
Researchers tracked microplastic accumulation and depuration in multiple environmental compartments and marine organisms using controlled microcosm experiments. The study found that particles distribute differently across sediment, water, and biota, and that biological depuration is incomplete within realistic timeframes.
Microplastics in Aquatic Ecosystems: A Review of Ecotoxicological Effects, Exposure Pathways and Trophic Transfer Risks
This review synthesises evidence on the ecotoxicological effects of microplastics in marine, freshwater, and estuarine environments, covering ingestion, bioaccumulation, trophic transfer, and physiological harms across aquatic fauna. It identifies chemical co-contamination and particle size as key modulators of toxicity.