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Microplastics Impact on Water and Aquatic Systems
Summary
This review examines how microplastics enter and affect aquatic ecosystems, summarising evidence of their impacts on fish, invertebrates, and other organisms from accumulation of toxic additives and physical effects. Researchers conclude that microplastics pose growing risks to aquatic biodiversity and to human health through the seafood supply chain.
Plastics are thrown into waterways at an alarming rate, resulting in splintered debris that produces small particles known as microplastics. Microplastic's smaller size makes it easier for aquatic organisms to consume it, resulting in the accumulation of toxic wastes and disrupting their physiological functions. Microplastics are widely available and have a high proclivity for interacting with the ecosystem, causing biogenic flora and fauna to be disrupted. Oceans cover over 71% of the earth's surface and hold 97% of the world's water. The remaining 3% is found in ponds, streams, glaciers, and ice caps, as well as as water vapour in the sky.