Effects of Micro- & Nano-plastics on Development and Growth in Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Embryos and Larvae

Abstract

Many studies have demonstrated the toxicological effects of microplastics and nanoplastics on aquatic organism as well as environment. The aim of the current study is to evaluate the toxicity of microplastics and nanoplastics on growth and development of Danio rerio after their exposure to microplastics and nanoplastics. Based on the collected data microplastics and nanoplastics have severe negative effects on zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos and larvae. Microplastics and nanoplastics had negative toxicity effects impacting eye development, swim bladder development, total length, heartbeat rate, physiological alteration, digestive system function and mortality. We also confirm that a single empty plastic tea bag incubated with water at 95-100 0 C releases millions to billions of microplastic and nanoplastic particles.