Julia Baak News Today

TUESDAY, May 30, 2023 (HealthDay News) -- Microplastic pollution is altering the gut microbiomes of wild seabirds and that could be a warning sign for humans, researchers report.

Scientists have found evidence that microplastics in the digestive tract of seabirds altered the microbiome of the gut -- increasing the presence of pathogens and antibiotic-resistant microbes, while decreasing the beneficial bacteria found in the intestines.

Scientists have been worried about the potential harms of microplastics for years. These small plastic particles less than 5 mm in length have been found everywhere because of plastic pollution - from the Earth's deep oceans to remote regions in Antarctica, and even the seafood we eat. But, are microplastics really harmful?

Microplastics are changing the gut microbiomes of wild seabirds. Humans should be wary, too, researchers say.