Jiwan Singh, Shikha
Department of Environmental Science, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow- 226025, India
Cite this article: Singh, J., Shikha, 2026.Microplastics in aquatic ecosystems: Sources, distribution, ecological impacts, detection methods, and future perspectives. J. Appl. Sci. Innov. Technol. 5(1), 1-5.
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), generally defined as plastic particles smaller than 5 mm, have emergedas one of the most unescapable pollutants in aquatic ecosystems. Their persistence, widespread distribution, and ability to adsorb toxic contaminants make them a significant environmental concern. Aquatic environments, including freshwater, estuarine, marine, and groundwater systems, act as major sinks and transport pathways for MPs. These particles originate from both main sources, such as industrial manufacturing of pellets and pharmaceuticals, cosmetic microdroplets, and subordinate sources resulting from the fragmentation of larger plastic debris. MPs adversely affect aquatic organisms through ingestion, entanglement, and chemical toxicity, potentially transferring pollutants through food webs to humans. This editorial summarizes the current knowledge of MP sources, transport mechanisms, analytical detection methods, ecological and human health implications, and mitigation strategies. It also highlights emerging research trends and identifies knowledge gaps that require further investigation.
Keywords: MPs, Aquatic ecosystems, Plastic pollution, Freshwater, Marine environment, Ecotoxicology, Nanoplastics
Scope: Environmental Science & Technology
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