Microplastic Contamination in Freshwater Ecosystems: Sources, Impacts, Detection Methods and Future Perspectives

Abstract

Microplastic contamination has emerged as a major environmental challenge affecting freshwater ecosystems worldwide. Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 5 mm that enter rivers, lakes, reservoirs and wetlands through domestic wastewater, industrial discharge, agricultural runoff and degradation of larger plastic materials. Due to their persistence, small size and ability to adsorb toxic pollutants, microplastics can affect aquatic organisms and may enter food webs. This paper reviews sources, distribution, ecological impacts, detection methods and management strategies related to freshwater microplastic pollution. Microplastic pollution has emerged as a critical environmental challenge affecting freshwater ecosystems worldwide. Microplastics (MPs), generally defined as plastic particles smaller than 5 mm, originate from the fragmentation of larger plastic debris and from direct release of small plastic particles from various human activities. Rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and wetlands act as important pathways and accumulation zones for microplastics before they reach marine environments. These pollutants interact with aquatic organisms, alter ecosystem functions, and may transfer toxic chemicals and microorganisms through food webs. This review discusses the major sources of microplastic contamination in freshwater ecosystems, their ecological and human health impacts, advanced detection and characterization techniques, and future strategies for monitoring and mitigation. Understanding microplastic behaviour and developing effective management approaches are essential for protecting freshwater resources and achieving sustainable environmental health.