Microplastics – an emerging threat in the Indian waterbodies

Microplastics in aquatic ecosystems are one of the emerging threats that concern aquatic life and human health. Plastic particles of varied sizes are very common in the marine environment, with microplastics disturbing aquatic life globally. Aquatic ecosystems play a pivotal role in stabilizing the global climate, and also provide a variety of services to the growing human population. However, anthropogenic activities provoke the microplastics accumulation in the aquatic ecosystems through various sources including extensive production, ubiquitous usage, wide applications and improper disposal. Recent years have witnessed that Indian waterbodies are drowning in plastic waste owing to poor management and improper facilities to dispose of plastic effluents. The occurrence, distribution and toxicity of microplastics are increasing in diverse aquatic sectors of Indian coastlines. The unique physiochemical properties, rapid internalization, retention time and long-term impacts of microplastics pose threats to aquatic life, and indirectly affect human health by fish consumption. A very few studies have reported that microplastics pollution is confined to recreational beaches and other industrial areas. This review provides additional information to understand the extent of microplastic defilement in the waterbodies of Indian coastlines, and also create awareness of the emerging pollutant-related health issues.