Impacts of microplastics on marine organisms: Present perspectives and the way forward

Abstract

The present review is detailed on the microplastics occurrences and their size, types besides impacts of microplastics from phytoplankton to marine mammals. Hence, the previous studies stated that the impacts of microplastics in the marine environment have been compared with the interaction of microplastics into marine organisms such as primary and secondary producers, fish, crustaceans, molluscs, sponges, marine plants, coral reefs, marine mammals and humans. Lastly, there is a need to understand the ecotoxicological effects of environmentally relevant concentrations of microplastics on the health of aquatic organisms. The recycling and reuse of plastic products and the support for research and innovation to develop new products to replace single-use plastics are also necessary to prevent and reduce plastic pollution. Thus, a precautionary approach is urged to be considered and research supporting mitigation of plastic pollution should be prioritized by the policy makers.