Microplastics (MPs) are extremely small plastic debris, less than 5 mm in size, present in the environment. They originate either from primary sources, such as microbeads, or form secondarily through the breakdown of larger discarded plastics, including consumer products and industrial waste. MPs have emerged as pervasive contaminants across marine, freshwater, and terrestrial ecosystems, and are now detected in drinking water, remote environments, and a wide range of aquatic organisms. This review consolidates current knowledge on the environmental fate, biological interactions, and detection methodologies of MPs, with a specific focus on emerging concepts such as plastisphere formation, biofilm development, the Trojan horse effect, and plastiglomerates. MPs act as substrates for microbial colonization, facilitating the spread of antibiotic resistance genes and altering microbial community dynamics. Through the Trojan horse mechanism, these serve as vectors for persistent organic pollutants (POPs), heavy metals, and pathogenic microorganisms, thereby enhancing ecological toxicity. Advanced detection methods including FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, and Py-GC-MS are discussed alongside current mitigation strategies spanning mechanical, chemical, and bioremediation techniques. Despite recent advances, challenges persist in detecting nanoplastics, standardizing methodologies, and implementing scalable remediation approaches. The review underscores the urgent need for interdisciplinary research, regulatory intervention, and public engagement to address the complex and multifaceted impacts of MPs on ecosystem and human health.

Keywords: Aquatic pollution, biofilm, microplastics, nanoplastics, plastiglomerates, plastisphere, Trojan horse effect.