Authors: Shimpe Kumari, Amrita Kumari, Balwant Singh, Dr. Balwant Singh
Abstract: Plastic pollution has emerged as a significant environmental challenge affecting freshwater ecosystems globally. This study investigated the effects of plastic pollution on freshwater ecosystems by assessing microplastic contamination and selected water quality parameters across different sampling sites exposed to varying levels of anthropogenic activities. A quantitative and descriptive research design was employed to evaluate the distribution, abundance, and ecological impacts of microplastics in freshwater environments. Water, sediment, and biological samples were collected using standardized sampling and laboratory procedures to identify and quantify plastic particles. Key physicochemical parameters, including dissolved oxygen, pH, and turbidity, were also analyzed to determine the relationship between plastic pollution and water quality. The findings revealed considerable spatial variation in microplastic concentration among the sampling sites. Highly urbanized and industrialized areas recorded elevated levels of contamination, with the highest concentration observed at Site F (390 particles/L), followed by Site C (340 particles/L). Sites with increased microplastic abundance also exhibited lower dissolved oxygen levels, higher turbidity, and slight reductions in pH, indicating ecological stress and deterioration of water quality. The study further showed that microplastics persist in freshwater environments and pose serious risks to aquatic organisms through ingestion, habitat alteration, and toxic chemical transfer within aquatic food webs. The study concludes that plastic pollution significantly threatens freshwater ecosystem health and biodiversity. Effective waste management strategies, environmental regulations, and continuous monitoring programs are therefore essential to reduce plastic contamination and protect freshwater resources.
DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20487718
