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Polyester Microfiber Accumulation and Toxicological Effects on Freshwater Fish Labeo rohita.
Summary
Scientists found that tiny plastic fibers from polyester clothing seriously harm freshwater fish when they eat them, causing stress, behavioral changes like increased aggression, and disrupting their body chemistry. This matters because these same plastic fibers are widespread in our water systems and food chain, potentially affecting the fish we eat and the water we drink. The study shows we need to reduce plastic pollution from synthetic clothing to protect both aquatic life and human health.
Synthetic polyester microfibers (PES-MFs) are emerging contaminants that pose a serious risk to aquatic organisms. This study evaluated the toxicological effects of PES-MFs on the freshwater Juvenile fish Labeo rohita, which were exposed for 21 days to environmentally relevant concentrations. Toxicity was assessed through ingestion rates, behavioural response, and biochemical biomarkers, including oxidative stress enzymes (SOD, CAT, LPO, GPx, GSH), and brain Acetylcholinesterase (AchE). Results revealed significant physiological stress, with elevated LPO and enzymatic imbalances in the gills and gastrointestinal tract (p<0.05). Behavioural changes such as reduced feeding, increased aggression, and decreased growth were observed. Microfiber ingestion was dose-dependent. Biochemical analysis showed a significant increase (p<0.001) in protein, carbohydrate, and lipid levels in the tissues of exposed fish. These findings confirm that exposure to PES-MFs causes physiological stress, disrupts metabolic balance, and harms the health and behaviour of L. rohita, highlighting the need to control microfiber pollution in freshwater ecosystems..