Microplastics that are particles of plastic smaller than 5mm are one of the biggest dangers to our seas. These particles originate from decomposition of larger pieces of plastic, microbeads in cosmetic products and synthetic fibers used in textiles.
1. Microplastics in Marine Life
Marine organisms from the size of plankton to whales, mistake the microplastics for food. If ingested, these particles can lead to clogging of the digestive system and they are not good sources of nutrition since they are made of plastic. Microplastics accumulate in the organisms and tissues of marine species and have negative effects, and lead to death in some cases.
2. Some of the implication include: Disruption of the food chain
It also affects individual animals; it also disrupts the whole cycle of the marine food chain. The small fish consumes microplastics, which in turn are consumed by the bigger fish and hence plastics have been found to bioaccumulate in the higher trophic level. This process known as biomagnification has large implications to productivity of the species and the scope of the habitat providing food in the food chain especially to human beings when they consume fish.
3. Ecosystem Imbalance
Microplastics in the marine ecosystems affect the physical and chemical properties of the environment in which they are available. For example, they can transport invasive species or viruses on ocean currents which threaten native inhabitants and disrupt marine habitats. Microplastics can also affect other natural vital activities including sedimentation and nutrient cycling thus compounding instability of marine ecosystems.
Conclusion
Microplastics are now considered a danger to the marine environment affecting the reproductive health of marine life, the food pyramid and disrupting ecological balances. Mitigating this challenge requires multi stakeholders efforts including global partnerships for reducing plastic waste, improving collection, sorting, and disposal methods and providing incentives for innovation in plastic substitutes. From this knowledge on microplastics and their effects, one is in a position to protect the world’s oceans and marine species for future generations.
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