Microplastics (MP) are small plastic fragments, less than 5 mm in size, that have become a growing concern in freshwater ecosystems. While plastic materials offer significant societal benefits, their widespread use has led to environmental issues, including the accumulation of plastics in aquatic environments. MP are particularly concerning because they can be ingested more easily by organisms in the food web than larger particles. Although research on marine MP is extensive, knowledge about freshwater MP remains limited. Studies show that MP are present in freshwater ecosystems, including rivers and lakes, but data on their abundance, sources, and biological effects is scarce. MP can accumulate other contaminants, increasing chemical exposure to organisms. Research is needed to understand the environmental impact of MP in freshwater systems, including their abundance, fate, sources, and biological effects. Current studies suggest that MP may act as vectors for other pollutants and pathogens, and that they can affect a wide range of aquatic species. The presence of MP in freshwater ecosystems is a growing concern, and more research is needed to assess their environmental risks. Collaboration among environmental scientists and sufficient funding are essential to address the knowledge gaps and develop effective strategies for managing MP in freshwater environments.Microplastics (MP) are small plastic fragments, less than 5 mm in size, that have become a growing concern in freshwater ecosystems. While plastic materials offer significant societal benefits, their widespread use has led to environmental issues, including the accumulation of plastics in aquatic environments. MP are particularly concerning because they can be ingested more easily by organisms in the food web than larger particles. Although research on marine MP is extensive, knowledge about freshwater MP remains limited. Studies show that MP are present in freshwater ecosystems, including rivers and lakes, but data on their abundance, sources, and biological effects is scarce. MP can accumulate other contaminants, increasing chemical exposure to organisms. Research is needed to understand the environmental impact of MP in freshwater systems, including their abundance, fate, sources, and biological effects. Current studies suggest that MP may act as vectors for other pollutants and pathogens, and that they can affect a wide range of aquatic species. The presence of MP in freshwater ecosystems is a growing concern, and more research is needed to assess their environmental risks. Collaboration among environmental scientists and sufficient funding are essential to address the knowledge gaps and develop effective strategies for managing MP in freshwater environments.