Microplastics (MPs), small synthetic par- ticles, have emerged as perilous chemical pollutants in aquatic habitats, causing grave concerns about their disruptive effects on ecosystems. The fauna and flora inhabiting these specific environments con- sume these MPs, unwittingly introducing them into the intricate web of the food chain. In this compre- hensive evaluation, the current methods of identify- ing MPs are amalgamated and their profound impacts on marine and freshwater ecosystems are discussed. There are many potential risks associated with MPs, including the dangers of ingestion and entanglement, as well as internal injuries and digestive obstructions, both marine and freshwater organisms. In this review, the merits and limitations of diverse identification techniques are discussed, including spanning chemi- cal analysis, thermal identification, and spectroscopic imaging such as Fourier-transform infrared spectros- copy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, and fluorescent microscopy. Additionally, it discusses the preva- lence of MPs, the factors that affect their release into aquatic ecosystems, as well as their plausible impact on various aquatic ecosystems. Considering these disconcerting findings, it is imperative that appropri- ate measures should be taken to assess the potential risks of MP pollution, protect aquatic life and human health, and foster sustainable development.