Investigating the Impacts of Microplastic Pollution on Marine Biodiversity and Ecosystem Functioning

1. Introduction 1.1 Background of the Study 1.2 Importance of Marine Biodiversity 1.3 Overview of Microplastic Pollution 1.4 Research Objectives and Questions 2. Microplastics: Definition and Sources 2.1 Definition and Types 2.2 Primary and Secondary Sources 2.3 Global Distribution 2.4 Human Activities Contributing 2.5 Regulatory Frameworks 3. Marine Biodiversity Overview 3.1 Definition of Marine Biodiversity 3.2 Key Marine Species Affected 3.3 Marine Habitats 3.4 Marine Food Web Dynamics 3.5 Biodiversity Conservation Efforts 4. Impacts of Microplastic on Marine Life 4.1 Physical Impacts on Fauna 4.2 Chemical Contamination Through Plastics 4.3 Effects on Reproductive Systems 4.4 Mortality Rates and Health 4.5 Case Studies of Affected Species 5. Ecosystem Functioning and Services 5.1 Definition of Ecosystem Functioning 5.2 Disruption of Trophic Levels 5.3 Impact on Primary Productivity 5.4 Effects on Nutrient Cycling 5.5 Long-term Ecosystem Changes 6. Socio-Economic Implications 6.1 Impact on Fisheries and Aquaculture 6.2 Economic Costs of Pollution 6.3 Public Health Concerns 6.4 Role of Policy and Legislation 6.5 Community Awareness and Engagement 7. Mitigation Strategies and Solutions 7.1 Advances in Plastic Alternatives 7.2 Waste Management Improvements 7.3 International Regulatory Measures 7.4 Marine Cleanup Initiatives 7.5 Public and Corporate Responsibilities 8. Conclusion and Future Research 8.1 Summary of Key Findings 8.2 Recommendations for Policy Makers 8.3 Unanswered Questions and Research Gaps 8.4 Future Research Directions 8.5 Final Remarks on Study Significance