Research Progress on the Migration Pathways and Ecological Effects of Microplastics in Marine Food Webs

Abstract

Marine microplastic (MPs) pollution poses a significant threat to marine ecosystems and human health. Understanding its migration patterns and ecological impacts within the food web is crucial for marine environmental protection. This paper reviews the process of MPs migration through different trophic levels in marine food webs, analyzes the mechanisms influencing their transfer efficiency, and assesses the ecological risks from individual to ecosystem levels. We find that MPs are transferred from primary producers through primary consumers, omnivorous animals, and eventually to carnivorous animals. Meanwhile, multiple factors, including the intrinsic properties of MPs, biological factors, and environmental media, interact to influence their transfer within the food web. Furthermore, MPs can harm individual organisms and populations. This paper systematically summarizes the key driving mechanisms of MPs transfer in marine food webs and provides valuable insights for effectively managing plastic pollution and ensuring the health and sustainable development of marine ecosystems.