Toxic effects of two emerging pollutants on native fish under different environmental conditions

Recent studies have found man-made plastics in every environment from Antarctica to the bottom of Mariners Trench. They have also been found in the diet of most animals including humans. Microplastics are plastic fragments less than 5 mm in length and are the most ubiquitous but least understood form of plastic pollution. Manufactured nanoparticles are man-made structures with at least one dimension less than 100 ?m. nanoparticles are used in paints, cosmetics, electronics, transformers, pharmaceuticals, clothing and construction. Because of their widespread and increasing uses, nanoparticles are increasing finding their way into freshwater ecosystems. This study will measure the effects of microplastics and metallic nanoparticles on the survival, growth, histology and biochemistry of the native wadi fish Aphanius dispar. The results will lead to a clearer understanding of the risks posed by these emerging pollutants and how to best manage harm reduction.