Which of the following best describes the effects of plastic pollution on marine life?

Plastic pollution has a profound negative impact on marine life and is a significant contributor to the degradation of marine habitats. When plastics enter the ocean, they can break down into smaller particles called microplastics, which are ingested by various marine organisms, including fish, seabirds, and marine mammals. This ingestion can lead to physical harm, toxicological effects, and even death.

Additionally, large pieces of plastic can cause entanglement, damaging both the animals involved and the ecosystems they inhabit. Plastics can smother coral reefs and reduce the availability of clean habitats crucial for species survival. Over time, the accumulation of plastic waste leads to poor water quality and disrupts the balance of marine ecosystems, further threatening biodiversity.

In contrast, the other options provided are inaccurate representations of the effects of plastic pollution. Marine species do not thrive as a result of plastic; nor do plastics contribute to creating beneficial habitats or have no impact on ecosystems. These misconceptions can undermine the serious ecological challenges posed by plastic waste in the oceans.