A review of microplastic pollution in aquaculture: Sources, effects, removal strategies and prospects

As microplastic pollution has become an emerging environmental issue of global concern, microplastics in aquaculture have become a research hotspot. For environmental safety, economic efficiency and food safety considerations, a comprehensive understanding of microplastic pollution in aquaculture is necessary. This review outlines an overview of sources and effects of microplastics in aquaculture. External environmental inputs and aquaculture processes are sources of microplastics in aquaculture. Microplastics may release harmful additives and adsorb pollutants in aquaculture environment, cause deterioration of aquaculture environment, as well as cause toxicological effects, affect the behavior, growth and reproduction of aquaculture products, ultimately reducing the economic benefits of aquaculture. Microplastics entering the human body through aquaculture products also pose potential health risks at multiple levels. Microplastic pollution removal strategies used in aquaculture in various countries are also reviewed. Ecological interception and purification are considered to be effective methods. In addition, strengthening aquaculture management and improving fishing gear and pack-aging are also currently feasible solutions. As proactive measures, new portable microplastic monitoring system and remote sensing technology are considered to have broad application prospects. And it was encouraged to comprehensively strengthen the supervision of microplastic pollution in aquaculture through talent exchange and strengthening the construction of laws and regulations.

Automated summary

As microplastic pollution becomes a global concern, research on microplastics in aquaculture has gained attention. This review provides an overview of the sources and effects of microplastics in aquaculture. External environmental inputs and aquaculture processes are identified as sources of microplastics in aquaculture. Microplastics can release harmful additives and absorb pollutants in the aquaculture environment, leading to deterioration of the environment and adverse effects on aquaculture products. Strategies for microplastic pollution removal in aquaculture, such as ecological interception and purification, improved aquaculture management, and better fishing gear and packaging, are discussed. Additionally, new monitoring systems and remote sensing technology are suggested as proactive measures for monitoring microplastic pollution. Strengthening talent exchange and the development of laws and regulations is encouraged to comprehensively address microplastic pollution in aquaculture.