Research progress on the effects of microplastics on coral reef ecosystems

Abstract

Marine microplastics, as an emerging pollutant, have attracted increasing attention globally. Coral reefs, the most biodiverse and representative ecosystems in tropical marine regions, play a vital role in maintaining marine ecological balance, supporting fishery resource regeneration, promoting ecotourism, facilitating marine drug development, and providing coastal protection. Characterized by their small size, high abundance, broad distribution, capacity to carry toxic substances, and ease of ingestion and transfer by marine organisms, microplastics have become a significant factor affecting the health of coral reef ecosystems. This review synthesizes the current global distribution of coral reefs, the status of microplastic pollution in coral reef waters, and the impacts of microplastics on corals and other organisms within these ecosystems. It also highlights existing challenges and future research directions, providing important scientific references for managing marine microplastic pollution and protecting coral reef ecosystems.