Anthropogenic pollutants, generated from industrial processes, transportation, agriculture, and household activities, have become a significant concern for aquatic environments. These pollutants include carbon mono- and dioxide, sulfur and nitrogen oxides, volatile organic compounds, particulate matter, synthetic non-biodegradable materials like plastics, hazardous compounds such as PFAS, plasticizers, pesticides, surfactants, pharmaceutically active compounds, UV-filters, and toxic metals. Despite global efforts to address pollution, new synthetic compounds are continuously being created and released, exacerbating the long-term impacts of persistent pollutants. Recent studies have shown that individual synthetic compounds can disrupt physiological functions in organisms, while the combined effects of multiple pollutants can be even more concerning.

These pollutants often exist at concentrations higher than those physiologically active, posing a significant threat to biodiversity and ecosystem sustainability. While much of the research has focused on the direct effects on higher trophic levels, the impacts on lower trophic levels, such as algae, fungi, and protozoa, remain underexplored. These organisms are crucial for ecosystem functioning and may be more sensitive to pollutants, necessitating detailed studies to understand the broader ecological implications.

This research topic aims to increase scientific and public awareness regarding the impacts of anthropogenic pollutants on lower trophic levels in aquatic environments. The primary objectives are to investigate the chemical, physiological, ecological, and molecular effects of these pollutants on primary producers and consumers, including grazers. Specific questions include: How do pollutants affect the physiology and survival of lower trophic organisms? What are the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects? How do these impacts translate to ecosystem-level changes and biodiversity trends? By addressing these questions, the research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the bottom-up effects of pollutants and inform strategies for mitigating their impacts.

To gather further insights into the impacts of anthropogenic pollutants on lower trophic levels in aquatic environments, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Chemical interactions and physiological responses of lower trophic organisms to pollutants
- Molecular mechanisms of pollutant effects on primary producers and consumers
- Ecological consequences of pollutant exposure on lower trophic levels
- Bioaccumulation and biomagnification of pollutants in aquatic food webs
- Impacts of pollutants on ecosystem services and biodiversity trends
- Effects of climate change on pollutant dynamics and organismal responses
- Use of polluted waters for aquaculture and agricultural practices
- Comparative studies between freshwater and seawater ecosystems
- Innovative methods for monitoring and mitigating pollutant impacts

By exploring these themes, the research topic aims to fill existing knowledge gaps and contribute to the development of effective environmental policies and practices.

We welcome submissions of the following article types: Brief Research Report, Case Report, General Commentary, Hypothesis & Theory, Methods, Mini Review, Opinion, Original Research, Perspective, Review, and Systematic Reviews.

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Frontiers in Protistology

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Impact