Predicting population level effects of microplastics ingestion on the behaviour of fishes

High numbers of microplastics are currently present in freshwater lakes, rivers and ponds. Fish are known to mistake microplastic particles for food, then behave differently after eating them. As changes in behaviour are often the first line of defense against human-induced rapid environmental changes, monitoring these behavioural changes can tell us how pollutants, like microplastics, are likely to affect populations. This research will model stream-dwelling salmonids consuming microplastic particles using agent-based models, to explore how microplastic ingestion will scale up to affect populations, and to identify the characteristics that will make a salmonid population the most and least resistant to the effects of microplastic pollution. This study will help inform effective conservation targets, to help mitigate harm caused by microplastics, and to reduce ecosystem-level effects caused by declines in salmonid populations. Educational materials targeting all ages will also inform the public on microplastics impacts in freshwater ecosystems.

Faculty Supervisor:

Christina Semeniuk

Student:

Partner:

rare Charitable Research Reserve

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Arts, entertainment and recreation; Other services (except public administration)

University:

University of Windsor

Program: