Uncovering the Hidden Dangers of Microplastic Pollution in Lake Ecosystems: Effects of Ingestion on Talitrid Amphipods

Microplastic (MP) contamination is a globally recognised issue in aquatic environments, and recently, there has been an increase investigations focusing on lake contamination, revealing significant amounts of dispersed MPs. However, our understanding the ingestion effects MPs organisms living ecosystems remains limited. This study aims to develop effective protocol for assessing by talitrid amphipod Cryptorchestia garbinii, with goal verifying evaluating biological following ingestion. Individuals sampled from shores Lake Albano were exposed four different polymers, namely low-density polyethylene (PE), terephthalate (PET), polyester (PES), polypropylene (PP), under laboratory conditions. To deliver through diet, we decided employ DECOTABs (DEcomposition COnsumption TABlets) which have successfully used as food source toxicity tests. At end experiments, employed solvatochromic fluorescent dye Nile red detect quantify present digestive tube contents animals. The results clearly demonstrate supplied polymers tabs, validating this method exposure effective. Furthermore, measurement glucose, glycogen, lipid levels reveals that within 24 h ingestion, had impact macromolecules involved energy metabolism C. garbinii. research underscores suitability species model organism studying MP uptake its effects.