Microplastic pollution and its ecotoxicological impact: Evidence from Vembanad Lake and zebrafish studies
subject: Fish population dynamics; Microplastics (MPs); Raman spectroscopy; Toxicity; Water pollution
description: Microplastic (MP) contamination is a threat to Earth and its aquatic systems by destabilizing ecological equilibrium. This study examined the distribution and impact of MPs in Vembanad Lake, an urbanized estuarine system in Kerala, India. MPs were identified at every sampling location, while sites 2, 3, and 4 exhibited peak contamination levels of 79 MPs/L. A survey among local inhabitants reported a decline in fish populations over many years. Analytical characterization using SEM, EDS, FTIR, and Raman spectroscopy revealed the dominance of HDPE, LDPE, PS, PET, PP, and PVC polymers. The presence of chromium (Cr), sodium (Na), aluminum (Al), and silica (SiO?) in MPs further enhances additional toxicity risks. Zebrafish exposed to the prevalent MPs for 21 days exhibited severe epithelial necrosis alongside goblet cell hyperplasia and muscle fiber degeneration, demonstrating systemic cytotoxic effects. These findings underscore the ecological threat of MP pollution and emphasize the urgent need for mitigation strategies to protect aquatic biodiversity. 2025 Elsevier B.V.
creator: Suresh, Nivya; Joseph, Manu M.
source: Regional Studies in Marine Science;Volume;93;Issue;;Article No.;104705;
publisher: Elsevier B.V.
date: 01-01-2026
rights: Restricted Access; Hardcopy may be available in the library
relation: ISSN: 23524855;
format: online
language: English
type: Article
coverage: Suresh N., Department of Life Sciences, CHRIST University, Karnataka, Bengaluru, 560029, India; Joseph M.M., Department of Life Sciences, CHRIST University, Karnataka, Bengaluru, 560029, India