Scientists raise red flag after making disturbing discovery while studying fish: 'Significant abnormalities'
In a study published in the journal Agricultural and Biological Sciences, a team of researchers revealed that the development of the Labeo rohita, or Rohu, can be greatly impacted by microplastic pollution.
The researchers used a "comprehensive assessment of growth performance, hematological changes, and histopathological effects" to determine the effects of polystyrene microplastics. Over the course of a 90-day trial, the researchers fed 315 fish a range of diets that featured varied percentages of polystyrene microplastic contamination in canola meal.
According to the research, Rohu fingerlings that were given food with 2.5% polystyrene microplastic contamination saw a "notable decline in growth and feed consumption." While taking a closer look with a microscopic inspection, researchers found that the gut of these fish revealed "significant abnormalities in their intestines, including villi structure disruption and increased mucus cell proliferation."
As a result, the researchers concluded that "long-term polystyrene microplastic exposure may compromise fish well-being and nutritional uptake."
The Rohu fish is a very important fish in many Asian countries due to its nutritional value, economic significance, and cultural relevance. The fish has a valuable source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and various vitamins.
As noted by the polystyrene microplastic exposure in the Rohu, microplastic pollution can have detrimental impacts on the food chain. This can disrupt vulnerable ecosystems and ultimately harm biodiversity.
Polystyrene microplastics can be found in a wide number of consumer products. These include cosmetics, cleaning products, and food packaging. When these products are improperly discarded, the larger plastics can break down due to environmental factors such as weathering and sun exposure.
According to a UN Environment Programme report, around 400 million tons of plastic waste are produced around the globe every year. Despite this massive amount of waste, it is estimated that just 9% of this plastic waste is recycled. The remaining plastic waste ends up in regional landfills or is discarded as litter throughout the environment.
As microplastics continue to find their way into the environment, many countries are actively attempting to push back on pollution. In June 2022, a $20 million grant was awarded to the Southeast Asia Regional Program on Combating Marine Plastics.
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The initiative was created to reduce plastic consumption, increase recycling, and minimize the leakage of plastics into the environment in Southeast Asia. You can also do your part to help prevent plastic pollution and curb the growing wave of microplastics affecting waterways across the world. There are several ways that you can learn to turn away from plastic and find more eco-friendly options, such as using multi-use bottles and bags and supporting brands with plastic-free packaging.
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'It's something that we could do a better job with,' Tiffin says, suggesting better coordination among public health officials and scientists to identify ticks and pathogens before they spread. Thangamani recommends using the tick map to see where you might be most at risk of getting a tick bite. His research team is also encouraging health care providers to refer to the map, so doctors can take it into account when treating patients with tick bites. (Ticks are taking over city parks. Here's how to avoid them.) Travelers should let their doctors know of recent travel if receiving treatment for a tick bite, since some invasive and native ticks look similar, says Tiffin; without knowing a patient's recent travel history, it's easy to visually misidentify a tick species. If hiking near home or abroad, wear protective clothes, use insect repellent, and stay away from tick-infested areas. Before returning to the U.S., Thangamani recommends travelers diligently check their bodies, clothes, and luggage. He adds: 'It is very easy to introduce a new species without us knowing it's happening.'
