Pollution’s Impact on Aquatic Animal Physiology

Abstract

This study investigates the multifaceted physiological impacts of pollution on aquatic animals, focusing on how various pollutants disrupt vital biological systems. Aquatic ecosystems, increasingly threatened by anthropogenic contaminants such as heavy metals, organic pollutants, microplastics, excess nutrients, and thermal discharge, serve as sensitive indicators of environmental health. Using both freshwater fish (Cyprinus carpio) and marine mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) as model organisms, the study examines changes in biochemical, histological, and behavioral parameters under controlled exposure to pollutants. Findings reveal that cadmium significantly reduces hemoglobin levels and enzymatic activity while increasing mortality and behavioral abnormalities. Microplastic exposure leads to digestive tissue damage, feeding inhibition, and cellular instability. Combined nitrate and heat stress elevate blood glucose, damage gill structures, and reduce survival rates, highlighting the compounded effects of multiple pollutants. The study utilized standardized assays and histopathological analysis to identify stress biomarkers that can serve as early indicators of pollution exposure. Results underscore the urgent need for regulatory action and ecological management strategies to mitigate pollutant discharge into aquatic habitats. The research contributes to a deeper understanding of the toxicological mechanisms through which pollutants affect aquatic fauna and offers practical insights for environmental monitoring, conservation planning, and policy formulation aimed at sustaining aquatic biodiversity and ecosystem functionality.