Invisible Threat: Cytotoxicity of Natural Microfiber in a Mangrove Sentinel Species

Abstract

The intensification of consumption driven by fast fashion has led to the substantial release of textile microfibers into aquatic environments. Although cotton fibers are considered natural, various chemical additives are incorporated during textile manufacturing, rendering them potentially toxic. This study evaluated the cytotoxic effects of cotton microfibers on the mangrove crab Ucides cordatus after 15 days of exposure at two concentrations (0.0001 and 0.1 g), using the Neutral Red Retention Assay. Results indicated a significant increase in cytotoxicity with rising microfiber concentration. These findings underscore that, despite their natural origin, cotton microfibers may pose a threat to ecosystem health