Microplastic Infiltration in Oceans
Why in News?
- Recent studies have highlighted the alarming presence of microplastics in the deep ocean, revealing that these pollutants are not confined to surface waters but have infiltrated the ocean’s depths, posing significant threats to marine ecosystems.
Important Key Points:
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Definition of Microplastics: Microplastics are plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size, originating from the breakdown of larger plastic debris or manufactured as microbeads used in personal care products.
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Deep Ocean Currents and Microplastic Distribution: Thermohaline circulation, driven by differences in water temperature and salinity, plays a crucial role in transporting microplastics to the deep sea. These currents can lead to the formation of microplastic hotspots in biodiversity-rich areas of the ocean floor.
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Impact on Marine Life: The accumulation of microplastics in deep-sea environments threatens benthic organisms (organisms living at the bottom of the ocean), potentially disrupting food chains and affecting the overall health of marine ecosystems.
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Challenges in Monitoring and Mitigation: The vastness and depth of the oceans make it challenging to monitor microplastic pollution effectively. There is a pressing need for advanced research and international collaboration to address this environmental concern.
