Microplastics detected in land insects, raising food chain concerns

Microplastics have been found in land insects for the first time, suggesting widespread contamination across entire ecosystems, according to The Telegraph. A study by Sussex and Exeter universities found plastic fragments in beetles, slugs, snails, and earthworms, indicating that pollutants are entering the food chain and reaching birds, mammals, and humans.

Researchers analysed over 580 samples from 51 sites, detecting microplastics in 12% of the specimens. Earthworms had the highest contamination rate at 30%, with polyester—commonly shed from clothing—being the most frequently found plastic type.

Scientists believe the plastics may originate from sources like sewage sludge used as fertiliser. The study warns of risks to biodiversity, linking plastic ingestion to stunted growth and organ damage.

Professor Fiona Mathews, an environmental biologist at the University of Sussex, described microplastics as “ubiquitous at every level of the food web,” while lead researcher Emily Thrift called the findings “deeply concerning.” The study calls for urgent action to reduce plastic pollution and better monitor its ecological impact.