Assessment of the effect of exposure to microplastic on Nile tilapia fish

Abstract

Microplastics are hazards to aquatic life. The concentration of microplastics (MPs) in aquatic ecosystems is increasing daily due to anthropogenic activities. Nile tilapia is a popular fish and is cultivated in many parts of the world to fulfil meat demands. However, the cultivation of Nile tilapia is affected by rising pollution levels. The review article contains data related to how microplastics affect Nile tilapia's health and reproductive behaviour so that adaptation and mitigation strategies can be done in a better way. The main purpose of this review article is to find out how rising concentrations of microplastics can harm fish organs, affect normal biological functioning, and cause behavioural abnormalities. The findings of this review article showed that the concentrations of MPs in different fish tissues have generally increased over time. It can lead to a decrease in the red blood cells, eosinophil percentages, haemoglobin levels, platelet counts, and percentages of hematocrit. After MP exposure, to microplastic, the biochemical markers increased considerably. Furthermore, exposure to MPs decreased the activity of acetylcholinesterase in the fish brain. Therefore there is a need to resolve this issue for further research and improved environmental protection measures.