Ecological and Behavioral Drivers of Plastic Ingestion
Métricas de diversidade na conservação: diversidade taxonômica, filogenética e funcional
Plastic ingestion has been interpreted as an evolutionary trap, where modern environmental stimuli, such as plastics, are mistaken for natural prey due to similar characteristics. Although this phenomenon is widely recognized, the exact causes of this behavior remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the factors influencing plastic ingestion using zebrafish (Danio rerio) as an experimental model. Hypotheses related to plastic availability in the environment, the resemblance of plastic particles to natural food (in terms of color), and the nutritional status of the fish were examined. The results indicated that plastic ingestion increased with greater availability, with a clear preference for red particles, which more closely resemble their prey. Furthermore, prolonged periods of food deprivation led to a significant increase in ingestion, particularly of red particles. These findings highlight the urgent need for future research focused on developing effective strategies to reduce plastic pollution and protect biodiversity, as well as identifying priority areas for management and conservation to minimize ecological impacts.