Microplastic Contamination in Aquaculture: Sources, Effects and Mitigation Strategies

Abstract

The prevalence of plastics in contemporary society has resulted in unprecedented levels of plastic pollution, raising significant environmental and health concerns. Since the 1950s, global plastic production has surged, leading to widespread accumulation of plastic waste. Microplastics (Mps), particles measuring less than 5 mm in diameter, have emerged as a particularly worrisome aspect of plastic pollution due to their persistence and potential adverse effects. Various sources contribute to the presence of Mps in aquatic environments, including land-based plastic waste, tourism-related littering, shipping activities, fisheries, aquaculture and atmospheric deposition. Mps can adversely impact aquatic organisms, affecting their feeding behavior, reproduction, immune responses and gene expression. Moreover, microplastics pose potential health risks to humans. Several measures can be undertaken to address the issue, including removing plastic microbeads from personal care products, utilizing biodegradable materials, enhancing waste management and recycling practices, upgrading wastewater treatment plants and advancing cleanup and bioremediation technologies.