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He G, Xie H, Tan B, Chen M, Wu Z, Dai Z, Sun R, He L, Li C. Effects of microplastics and heavy metal stress on the growth and physiological characteristics of pioneer plant Avicennia marina. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2025; 216:117929. [PMID: 40228438 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2025.117929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2025] [Accepted: 04/01/2025] [Indexed: 04/16/2025]
Abstract
Mangrove plants grow in muddy and swampy areas where the land and sea meet and are threatened by various pollutants. In the present study, Avicennia marina (Forsk.) Vierh. (A.marina), the pioneer species in mangrove, was selected as model plant. A composite pollution model of microplastics (polypropylene [PP], polyethylene [PE], and polyamide [PA]) and multiple heavy metals (Cr, Cu, Pb, Zn, Cd, Mn, Co, Hg, As, and Ni) at environmental concentrations was constructed to explore the effects of dual stress on seedling growth and metabolism. Over the 65-days co-exposure, no lethal effects were observed among any contaminant treatments. In contrast, the PP and heavy metal (PPH) and PA and heavy metal (PAH) groups promoted the growth and development of the seedlings. The PPH and PAH treatments increased the soluble protein content of seedling leaves to 4.4 and 3.1 times of the heavy metal (H) treatment, respectively. Free proline content was approximately 58 % higher in the PPH treatment group than in the H group. PE and heavy metal (PEH) exposure significantly inhibited enzyme activities related to nitrogen uptake and transformation in the root and leaf tissues of seedlings. In addition, higher concentrations and frequencies of reactive oxygen species accumulation were observed in root tissues of seedlings grown in sediment added PEH and PAH. These findings provide critical evidences to elucidate the toxicological effects of microplastics and heavy metals combined stress on mangrove plant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoli He
- School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Huifeng Xie
- School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Baoyi Tan
- School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Mingqi Chen
- School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Zijie Wu
- School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Zhenqing Dai
- School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China; Analytical and Testing Center for Ocean in Western of Guangdong Province, Guangdong Provincial Observation and Research Station for Tropical Ocean Environment in Western Coastal Water, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Ruikun Sun
- School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China; Analytical and Testing Center for Ocean in Western of Guangdong Province, Guangdong Provincial Observation and Research Station for Tropical Ocean Environment in Western Coastal Water, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Lei He
- Analyzing and Testing Center, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China.
| | - Chengyong Li
- School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China; Analyzing and Testing Center, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China; Analytical and Testing Center for Ocean in Western of Guangdong Province, Guangdong Provincial Observation and Research Station for Tropical Ocean Environment in Western Coastal Water, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China.
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2
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Fu X, Pan X, Chen J, Zhang M, Ye Z, Yu X. Characterization of the Differences in Dissolved Organic Matter (DOM) Adsorbed on Five Kinds of Microplastics Using Multiple Methods. Molecules 2025; 30:1586. [PMID: 40286174 PMCID: PMC11990482 DOI: 10.3390/molecules30071586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2025] [Revised: 03/20/2025] [Accepted: 03/24/2025] [Indexed: 04/29/2025] Open
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous in aquatic environments, soils, and beach sediments, demonstrating a remarkable ability to adsorb dissolved organic matter (DOM). Although there are methods for extracting DOM from water, the approaches for directly extracting DOM from microplastics have not been thoroughly investigated, and the characterization of DOM adsorbed on microplastics is also insufficient. In this study, five different types of microplastic samples were collected from each of five environmental media (water and sediment), and finally 25 samples were obtained. This paper comparatively assessed the extraction efficiency of DOM from MPs with various solvents by using total organic carbon (TOC), culminating in the development of a sodium pyrophosphate-NaOH solution extraction method optimized for DOM. The morphology, material and environmental medium of microplastics were the three primary factors affecting the adsorption of DOM on microplastics, with the highest enrichment ratio of 1.4-1.8 times for extruded polyethylene microplastics (EPE-MPs) characterized by their porous structure in the flowing water environment. The molecular weight of DOM adsorbed on microplastics showed a multi-modal distribution pattern with great dissimilarities among the different environmental media. Gel permeation chromatography (GPC) indicated that the weight-average molecular weight (Mw) of DOM was 2750-4552 Da for river MPs, 2760-5402 Da for Qiantang River MPs, 1233-5228 Da for East China Sea MPs, 440-7302 Da for soil sediment MPs and 438-6178 Da for beach sediment MPs, respectively. Excitation-emission matrix-parallel factor analysis (EEM-PARAFAC) identified that tyrosine-like substances with high excitation in region IV and low excitation in region I were predominantly adsorbed on MPs, followed by tryptophan-like substances with low excitation in region II and protein-like substances in region IV, while humic- and fulvic-like substances in regions V and III, respectively, exhibited the least adsorption affinity. The findings underscored the critical need to comprehensively consider the interactions between MPs and DOM and their environmental impacts in pollution control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianshu Fu
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, China;
- Key Laboratory of Microbiological Metrology, Measurement & Bio-Product Quality Security, State Administration for Market Regulation, College of Life Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou 310018, China; (M.Z.); (Z.Y.); (X.Y.)
| | - Xiangliang Pan
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, China;
| | - Jun Chen
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, China;
- College of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310021, China
- Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention Technology, Interdisciplinary Research Academy, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310021, China
| | - Mingzhou Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Microbiological Metrology, Measurement & Bio-Product Quality Security, State Administration for Market Regulation, College of Life Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou 310018, China; (M.Z.); (Z.Y.); (X.Y.)
| | - Zihong Ye
- Key Laboratory of Microbiological Metrology, Measurement & Bio-Product Quality Security, State Administration for Market Regulation, College of Life Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou 310018, China; (M.Z.); (Z.Y.); (X.Y.)
| | - Xiaoping Yu
- Key Laboratory of Microbiological Metrology, Measurement & Bio-Product Quality Security, State Administration for Market Regulation, College of Life Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou 310018, China; (M.Z.); (Z.Y.); (X.Y.)
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Iqbal S, Li Y, Xu J, Worthy FR, Gui H, Faraj TK, Jones DL, Bu D. Smallest microplastics intensify maize yield decline, soil processes and consequent global warming potential. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2025; 486:136993. [PMID: 39754884 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.136993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2024] [Revised: 12/07/2024] [Accepted: 12/23/2024] [Indexed: 01/06/2025]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution seriously affects global agroecosystems, strongly influencing soil processes and crop growth. Microplastics impact could be size-dependent, yet relevant field experiments are scarce. We conducted a field experiment in a soil-maize agroecosystem to assess interactions between microplastic types and sizes. Microplastics were added to soils used for maize cultivation: either polyethylene or polystyrene, of 75, 150, or 300 µm size. Overall, we found that microplastic contamination led to increased soil carbon, nitrogen and biogeochemical cycling. Polyethylene contamination was generally more detrimental than polystyrene. Smallest polyethylene microplastics (75 µm) were associated with two-fold raised CO2 and N2O emissions - hypothetically via raised microbial metabolic rates. Increased net greenhouse gases emissions were calculated to raise soil global warming potential of soils. We infer that MPs-associated emissions arose from altered soil processes. Polyethylene of 75 µm size caused the greatest reduction in soil carbon and nitrogen pools (1-1.5 %), with lesser impacts of larger microplastics. These smallest polyethylene microplastics caused the greatest declines in maize productivity (∼ 2-fold), but had no significant impact on harvest index. Scanning electron microscopy indicated that microplastics were taken up by the roots of maize plants, then also translocated to stems and leaves. These results raise serious concerns for the impact of microplastics pollution on future soil bio-geochemical cycling, food security and climate change. As microplastics will progressively degrade to smaller sizes, the environmental and agricultural impacts of current microplastics contamination of soils could increase over time; exacerbating potential planetary boundary threats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahid Iqbal
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650201, China; Honghe Centre for Mountain Futures, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Honghe, Yunnan 654400, China.
| | - Yunju Li
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650201, China; Honghe Centre for Mountain Futures, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Honghe, Yunnan 654400, China.
| | - Jianchu Xu
- Honghe Centre for Mountain Futures, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Honghe, Yunnan 654400, China; CIFOR-ICRAF China Program, World Agroforestry (ICRAF), Kunming, Yunnan 650201, China
| | - Fiona Ruth Worthy
- Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Natural Medicines, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650201, China; Yunnan Key Laboratory for Fungal Diversity and Green Development, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650201, China
| | - Heng Gui
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650201, China; Honghe Centre for Mountain Futures, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Honghe, Yunnan 654400, China.
| | - Turki Kh Faraj
- Department of Soil Science, College of Food and Agricultural Sciences, King Saud University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Davey L Jones
- School of Natural Sciences, Environment Centre Wales, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd LL572UW, UK; Soils West, Centre for Sustainable Farming Systems, Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch WA6105, Australia
| | - Dengpan Bu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
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Xiang Y, Yao B, Peñuelas J, Sardans J, Nizzetto L, Li R, Liu Y, Luo Y, Räty M, Long J, Li Y. Microplastic effects on soil nitrogen cycling enzymes: A global meta-analysis of environmental and edaphic factors. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2025; 484:136677. [PMID: 39631204 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.136677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2024] [Revised: 11/19/2024] [Accepted: 11/25/2024] [Indexed: 12/07/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic accumulation in soil ecosystems poses significant environmental concerns, potentially impacting nitrogen cycling processes and ecosystem health. This meta-analysis of 147 studies (1138 data points) assessed the impact of microplastics (MPs) on soil nitrogen-acquisition enzymes. We found that MPs exposure significantly increased soil urease (UE) and leucine aminopeptidase activities by 7.6 % and 8.0 %, respectively, while N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase activity was not significantly affected. Biodegradable MPs showed more pronounced effects compared to conventional MPs. Enzyme activities were influenced by MPs properties (e.g., polymer type, size, concentration), experimental conditions (e.g., field or laboratory setting, temperature, nitrogen fertilization), and soil properties (e.g., clay content, pH, organic carbon, total nitrogen). For instance, acidic soils enhanced UE activity, while neutral soils reduced it. These findings emphasize the complex interactions between MPs and soil ecosystems, highlighting the need for context-specific environmental management strategies and policy-making approaches to mitigate the impacts of MPs pollution on soil health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangzhou Xiang
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Geographic State Monitoring of Watershed, School of Geography and Resources, Guizhou Education University, Guiyang 550018, China
| | - Bin Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Tree Genetics and Breeding, Institute of Ecology Conservation and Restoration, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing 100091, China
| | - Josep Peñuelas
- CSIC Global Ecology Unit, CREAF-CSIC-UAB, 08193 Bellaterra, Catalonia, Spain; CREAF - Ecological and Forestry Applications Research Centre, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Jordi Sardans
- CSIC Global Ecology Unit, CREAF-CSIC-UAB, 08193 Bellaterra, Catalonia, Spain; CREAF - Ecological and Forestry Applications Research Centre, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Luca Nizzetto
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research, Økernveien 94, 0579 Oslo, Norway
| | - Rui Li
- Linze Inland River Basin Research Station, Chinese Ecosystem Research Network, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Ying Liu
- School of Biological Sciences, Guizhou Education University, Guiyang 550018, China
| | - Yang Luo
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Geographic State Monitoring of Watershed, School of Geography and Resources, Guizhou Education University, Guiyang 550018, China
| | - Mari Räty
- Grasslands and Sustainable Farming, Production Systems Unit, Natural Resources Institute Finland, Halolantie 31A, Maaninka, Kuopio FI-71750, Finland
| | - Jian Long
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Geographic State Monitoring of Watershed, School of Geography and Resources, Guizhou Education University, Guiyang 550018, China.
| | - Yuan Li
- Grasslands and Sustainable Farming, Production Systems Unit, Natural Resources Institute Finland, Halolantie 31A, Maaninka, Kuopio FI-71750, Finland.
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Riaz K, Yasmeen T, Attia KA, Kimiko I, Arif MS. Phytotoxic Effects of Polystyrene Microplastics on Growth Morphology, Photosynthesis, Gaseous Exchange and Oxidative Stress of Wheat Vary with Concentration and Shape. TOXICS 2025; 13:57. [PMID: 39853055 PMCID: PMC11768867 DOI: 10.3390/toxics13010057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2024] [Revised: 11/29/2024] [Accepted: 12/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2025]
Abstract
Microplastics pose a serious ecological threat to agricultural soils, as they are very persistent in nature. Microplastics can enter the soil system in different ways and present different shapes and concentrations. However, little is known about how plants react to microplastics with different concentrations and shapes. To this end, we conducted a factorial pot experiment with wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in which we mixed polystyrene (PS) in different shapes (bead, fiber and powder) with soil at concentrations of 0, 1, 3 and 5%. Although all shapes of PS significantly reduced morphological growth traits, PS in powder shape was the microplastic that reduced plant height (by 58-60%), fresh biomass (by 54-55%) and dry biomass (by 61-62%) the most, especially at the 3% and 5% concentrations compared with 0% PS. Similar negative effects were also observed for root length and fresh root weight at the 3% and 5% concentrations, regardless of shape. A concentration-dependent reduction in the leaf area index (LAI) was also observed. Interestingly, increasing the PS concentration tended to up-regulate the activity of antioxidant enzymes for all shapes, indicating potential complexity and a highly time-dependent response related to various reactive oxygen species (ROS). Importantly, PS at the 5% concentration caused a significant reduction in chlorophyll pigmentation and photosynthetic rate. For the transpiration rate, stomatal conductance and intercellular CO2 concentration, the negative effects of PS on wheat plants increased with the increase in microplastic concentration for all shapes of PS. Overall, we concluded that PS microplastics at higher concentrations are potentially more devastating to the physiological growth and biochemical attributes of wheat, as evidenced by the negative effects on photosynthetic pigments and gas exchange parameters for all shapes. We recommend further research experiments not only on translocation but also on tissue-specific retention of different sizes in crops to fully understand their impact on food safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Komal Riaz
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan; (K.R.); (T.Y.)
| | - Tahira Yasmeen
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan; (K.R.); (T.Y.)
| | - Kotb A. Attia
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Itoh Kimiko
- Institute of Science and Technology, Niigata University, Ikarashi-2, Nishiku, Niigata 950-2181, Japan;
| | - Muhammad Saleem Arif
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan; (K.R.); (T.Y.)
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Yan F, Hermansen C, Zhou G, Knadel M, Norgaard T. Meta-analysis shows that microplastics affect ecosystem services in terrestrial environments. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 480:136379. [PMID: 39500183 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.136379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2024] [Revised: 10/05/2024] [Accepted: 10/30/2024] [Indexed: 12/01/2024]
Abstract
To date, the understanding of the risks and impacts of microplastics (MPs) on terrestrial ecosystems remains limited, primarily due to most studies focusing on single ecosystem service. This study addressed this gap by conducting an integrative meta-analysis of 128 studies to explore the multifaceted impacts of MPs on various ecosystem services, including plant productivity, soil carbon (C) sequestration, microbial biodiversity, soil fertility, microbial biomass, and enzyme activity. We found that MPs reduced plant productivity service by 14.5 %, microbial biodiversity service by 3.4 %, and soil fertility service by 8.2 %, while soil C sequestration service increased by 12.2 %. No significant effects were observed on microbial biomass and enzyme activity services. Additionally, MPs of different types and shapes influenced the ecosystem services differently, with fiber, fragment, and round-shaped MPs decreasing the plant productivity service by 22.0 %, 14.6 %, and 12.7 %, respectively. Correlation analysis revealed intricate relationships between MPs properties and the ecosystem services. Our findings also revealed complex interdependencies among the ecosystem services induced by MPs application. We observed that the plant productivity service was negatively correlated with the soil C sequestration service, but positively correlated with microbial biodiversity, microbial biomass, and enzyme activity services. Together, our study emphasized the need for targeted research to develop mitigation strategies addressing the multifaceted effects of MPs to terrestrial ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fulai Yan
- Department of Agroecology, Aarhus University, Blichers Alle 20, DK-8830 Tjele, Denmark.
| | - Cecilie Hermansen
- Department of Agroecology, Aarhus University, Blichers Alle 20, DK-8830 Tjele, Denmark
| | - Guiyao Zhou
- Laboratorio de Biodiversidad y Funcionamiento Ecosistémico, Instituto de Recursos Naturales y Agrobiología de Sevilla (IRNAS), CSIC, Av. Reina Mercedes 10, 41012 Seville, Spain
| | - Maria Knadel
- Department of Agroecology, Aarhus University, Blichers Alle 20, DK-8830 Tjele, Denmark
| | - Trine Norgaard
- Department of Agroecology, Aarhus University, Blichers Alle 20, DK-8830 Tjele, Denmark
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7
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Qaiser Z, Khalid N, Mahmood A, Rizvi ZF, Lee SY, Aqeel M. Spatial distribution and impacts of microplastics on potato growth and yield in agroecosystems in Sialkot, Pakistan. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 480:136262. [PMID: 39471612 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.136262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2024] [Revised: 10/16/2024] [Accepted: 10/22/2024] [Indexed: 11/01/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution is a growing concern, yet its impacts on agroecosystems remain poorly understood. This study investigates MP contamination in the agroecosystems of Sialkot, Pakistan, and its potential effects on the growth, physio-biochemical attributes, and yield of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.). Plant and soil samples from 10 diverse agricultural fields were collected and analyzed for MP contamination. FTIR analysis revealed widespread MP presence in the soil across all sites. Fragment, film, and fiber types dominated, with low-density polyethylene (22.42 %), high-density polyethylene (18.05 %), and polystyrene (12.3 %) being the most prevalent polymers. A significant variation in plant growth parameters was observed. The number of tubers per plant also exhibited a significant difference, as evidenced by the decline in potato yield with increasing levels of MP contamination. Potato yield showed a negative correlation with MP contamination levels. The nutrients (Zn, Cu, Ni, and Na) uptake in plant shoots was also observed to be decreased except for Mg and Mn at all sites. This study showed that MPs are contaminating our agricultural lands and they may affect growth and yield of potato. Additional research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and develop mitigation strategies to improve agricultural productivity and food security.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zonaira Qaiser
- Department of Botany, Government College Women University, Sialkot, Pakistan
| | - Noreen Khalid
- Department of Botany, Government College Women University, Sialkot, Pakistan.
| | - Adeel Mahmood
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Government College Women University, Sialkot, Pakistan
| | - Zarrin Fatima Rizvi
- Department of Botany, Government College Women University, Sialkot, Pakistan
| | - Shiou Yih Lee
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, INTI International University, 71800 Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Aqeel
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems (SKLHIGA), College of Ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, Gansu, PR China
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Liu X, Yu Y, Yu H, Sarkar B, Zhang Y, Yang Y, Qin S. Nonbiodegradable microplastic types determine the diversity and structure of soil microbial communities: A meta-analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 260:119663. [PMID: 39043354 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.119663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2024] [Revised: 07/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
As an emerging contaminant, microplastics (MPs) have received considerable attention for their potential threat to the soil environment. However, the response of soil bacterial and fungal communities to MPs exposure remains unclear. In this study, we conducted a global meta-analysis of 95 publications and 2317 observations to assess the effects of nonbiodegradable MP properties and exposure conditions on soil microbial biomass, alpha and beta diversity, and community structure. Our results indicate that MPs increased (p < 0.05) soil active microbial biomass by 42%, with the effect varying with MPs type, exposure concentration, exposure time and soil pH. MPs concentration was identified as the most important factor controlling the response of soil microbial biomass to MPs. MPs addition decreased (p < 0.05) the soil bacterial Shannon and Chao1 indices by 2% and 3%, respectively, but had limited effects (p > 0.05) on soil fungal Shannon and Chao1 indices. The type of MPs and exposure time determined the effects of MPs on bacterial Shannon and Chao1 indices, while the type of MPs and soil pH controlled the response ratios of fungal Shannon and Chao1 indices to MPs. Specifically, soil organic carbon (SOC) was the major factor regulating the response ratio of bacterial alpha diversity index to MPs. The presence of MPs did not affect soil bacterial community structure and beta diversity. Our results highlight that MPs reduced bacterial diversity and richness but increased the soil active microbial biomass, suggesting that MPs could disrupt biogeochemical cycles by promoting the growth of specific microorganisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinhui Liu
- Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil Ecology, Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory of Agricultural Water Resources, Center for Agricultural Resources Research, Institute of Genetic and Developmental Biology, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, 286 Huaizhong Road, Shijiazhuang, 050021, Hebei, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yongxiang Yu
- Research Center for Environmental Ecology and Engineering, School of Environmental Ecology and Biological Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan, 430205, China.
| | - Haiyang Yu
- College of Resources and Environment, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, China
| | - Binoy Sarkar
- Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes, SA 5095, Australia
| | - Yanyan Zhang
- College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Yuyi Yang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Wetland Evolution & Ecological Restoration, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Shuping Qin
- Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil Ecology, Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory of Agricultural Water Resources, Center for Agricultural Resources Research, Institute of Genetic and Developmental Biology, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, 286 Huaizhong Road, Shijiazhuang, 050021, Hebei, China.
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9
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Liu Y, Chen S, Zhou P, Li H, Wan Q, Lu Y, Li B. Differential impacts of microplastics on carbon and nitrogen cycling in plant-soil systems: A meta-analysis. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 948:174655. [PMID: 39004375 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are widely present in terrestrial ecosystems. However, how MPs impact carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) cycling within plant-soil system is still poorly understood. Here, we conducted a meta-analysis utilizing 3338 paired observations from 180 publications to estimate the effects of MPs on plant growth (biomass, nitrogen content, nitrogen uptake and nitrogen use efficiency), change in soil C content (total carbon (TC), soil organic carbon (SOC), dissolved organic carbon (DOC), microbial biomass carbon (MBC)), C losses (carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane), soil N content (total nitrogen, dissolved organic nitrogen, microbial biomass nitrogen, total dissolve nitrogen, ammonium, nitrate (NO3--N) and nitrite) and nitrogen losses (nitrous oxide, ammonia (NH3) volatilization and N leaching) comprehensively. Results showed that although MPs significantly increased CO2 emissions by 25.7 %, they also increased TC, SOC, MBC, DOC and CO2 by 53.3 %, 25.4 %, 19.6 % and 24.7 %, respectively, and thus increased soil carbon sink capacity. However, MPs significantly decreased NO3--N and NH3 volatilization by 14.7 % and 43.3 %, respectively. Meanwhile, MPs significantly decreased plant aboveground biomass, whereas no significant changes were detected in plant belowground biomass and plant N content. The impacts of MPs on soil C, N and plant growth varied depending on MP types, sizes, concentrations, and experimental durations, in part influenced by initial soil properties. Overall, although MPs enhanced soil carbon sink capacity, they may pose a significant threat to future agricultural productivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yige Liu
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, PR China
| | - Siyi Chen
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, PR China
| | - Pengyu Zhou
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, PR China
| | - Haochen Li
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, PR China
| | - Quan Wan
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, PR China
| | - Ying Lu
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, PR China
| | - Bo Li
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, PR China.
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10
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Wright ACM, Boots B, Ings TC, Green DS. Above- and below-ground field study on the impacts of conventional and alternative mesoplastics on Hordeum vulgare growth and soil invertebrate communities. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 365:143393. [PMID: 39307466 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.143393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Revised: 09/03/2024] [Accepted: 09/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024]
Abstract
Plastic plays an important role in agriculture, but its use has become a concerning source of pollution. While new (bio)degradable, alternative plastics are being developed and used as mulching films, their ecological impacts, in particular under field conditions, are not well understood. Furthermore, there is a notable lack of knowledge on how plastic pollution affects soil invertebrate communities. Most existing studies primarily focus on microplastics, often neglecting the impacts of mesoplastics. This study therefore compared the separate effects of two conventional (polyethylene and polypropylene) and two alternative (polyethylene containing biodegradable additives and compostable polylactic acid) mesoplastic films on plant performance (biomass, seed yield) and soil mesofaunal assemblages in a field experiment. The mesoplastics were applied at 0.1% (w/w), prior to soil being planted with Hordeum vulgare (spring barley), which was grown to maturity, for 11 weeks. Generally, there were no measurable differences between the conventional and alternative plastic treatments, however, barley exposed to mesoplastics showed reduced biomass, seed yield, and chlorophyll content, along with increased oxidative stress. Soil fauna, particularly Collembola, had lower richness and abundance when exposed to both plastic types, but assemblage structure and composition remained unchanged after 11 weeks. This study is pivotal in highlighting that both conventional and alternative plastics can similarly affect plant health and soil ecosystems. The evidence provided is essential for refining future risk assessments of agricultural plastic pollution and underscores the urgent need for more sustainable practices and materials in agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy C M Wright
- Applied Ecology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, CB1 1PT, UK.
| | - Bas Boots
- Applied Ecology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, CB1 1PT, UK
| | - Thomas C Ings
- Applied Ecology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, CB1 1PT, UK
| | - Dannielle S Green
- Applied Ecology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, CB1 1PT, UK
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11
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Tiwari E, Sistla S. Agricultural plastic pollution reduces soil function even under best management practices. PNAS NEXUS 2024; 3:pgae433. [PMID: 39440019 PMCID: PMC11495371 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgae433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 09/19/2024] [Indexed: 10/25/2024]
Abstract
Soil plastic contamination is considered a threat to environmental health and food security. Plastic films-which are widely used as soil mulches-are the largest single source of agricultural plastic pollution. Growing evidence indicates that high concentrations of plastic negatively affect critical soil functions. However, the relationships between agricultural plastic accumulation and its biogeochemical consequences in regions with relatively low levels of soil plastic pollution remain poorly characterized. We sampled farms across the California Central Coast (a region of global agricultural importance with extensive plastic mulch-based production) to assess the degree and biogeochemical consequences of plastic pollution in fields subject to "best practice" plastic mulching application and removal practices over multiple years. All farms exhibited surface soil plastic contamination, macroplastic positively correlated with microplastic contamination levels, and macroplastic accumulation was negatively correlated with soil moisture, microbial activity, available phosphate, and soil carbon pool size. These effects occurred at less than 10% of the contamination levels reported to degrade field soils, but were relatively subtle, with no detectable relationship to microplastic concentration. Identifying declines in soil quality with low levels of macroplastic fragment accumulation suggests that we must improve best management plasticulture practices to limit the threat to soil health and agricultural productivity of unabated plastic accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekta Tiwari
- Department of Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences, College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA 93407, USA
| | - Seeta Sistla
- Department of Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences, College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA 93407, USA
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12
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Mirzaei Aminiyan M, Shorafa M, Pourbabaee AA. Mitigating the detrimental impacts of low- and high-density polyethylene microplastics using a novel microbial consortium on a soil-plant system: Insights and interactions. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 283:116805. [PMID: 39096689 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
The accumulation of polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs) in soil has raised considerable concerns; however, the effects of their persistence and mitigation on agroecosystems have not been explored. This study aimed to assess the detrimental effects of PE-MPs on a soil-plant system and evaluate their mitigation using a novel microbial consortium (MC). We incorporated low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) at two different concentrations, along with a control (0 %, 1 %, and 2 % w/w) into the sandy loam soil for a duration of 135 days. The samples were also treated with a novel MC and incubated for 135 days. The MC comprised three bacterial strains (Ralstonia pickettii (MW290933) strain SHAn2, Pseudomonas putida strain ShA, and Lysinibacillus xylanilyticus XDB9 (T) strain S7-10F), and a fungal strain (Aspergillus niger strain F1-16S). Sunflowers were subsequently cultivated, and physiological growth parameters were measured. The results showed that adding 2 % LDPE significantly decreased soil pH by 1.06 units compared to the control. Moreover, adding 2 % HDPE resulted in a more significant decrease in soil electrical conductivity (EC) relative to LDPE and the control. A dose-dependent increase in dissolved organic carbon (DOC) was observed, with the highest DOC found in 2 % LDPE. The addition of higher dosages of LDPE reduced soil bulk density (BD) more than HDPE. The addition of 2 % HDPE increased the water drop penetration time (WDPT) but decreased the mean weight diameter of soil aggregates (MWD) and water-stable aggregates (WSA) compared to LDPE. The results also revealed that higher levels of LDPE enhanced soil basal respiration (BR) and microbial carbon biomass (MBC). The interaction of MC and higher MP percentages considerably reduced soil pH, EC, BD, and WDPT but significantly increased soil DOC, MWD, WSA, BR, and MBC. Regarding plant growth, incorporating 2 % PE-MPs significantly reduced physiological responses of sunflower: chlorophyll content (Chl; -15.2 %), Fv/Fm ratio (-25.3 %), shoot dry weight (ShD; -31.3 %), root dry weight (RD; -40 %), leaf area (LA; -38.4 %), and stem diameter (StemD; -25 %) compared to the control; however, the addition of novel MC considerably reduced and ameliorated the harmful effects of 2 % PE-MPs on the investigated plant growth responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milad Mirzaei Aminiyan
- Department of Soil Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mahdi Shorafa
- Department of Soil Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Ahmad Ali Pourbabaee
- Department of Soil Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
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13
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Huang F, Chen L, Yang X, Jeyakumar P, Wang Z, Sun S, Qiu T, Zeng Y, Chen J, Huang M, Wang H, Fang L. Unveiling the impacts of microplastics on cadmium transfer in the soil-plant-human system: A review. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 477:135221. [PMID: 39096630 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
The co-contamination of soils by microplastics (MPs) and cadmium (Cd), one of the most perilous heavy metals, is emerging as a significant global concern, posing risks to plant productivity and human health. However, there remains a gap in the literature concerning comprehensive evaluations of the combined effects of MPs and Cd on soil-plant-human systems. This review examines the interactions and co-impacts of MPs and Cd in soil-plant-human systems, elucidating their mechanisms and synergistic effects on plant development and health risks. We also review the origins and contamination levels of MPs and Cd, revealing that sewage, atmospheric deposition, and biosolid applications are contributors to the contamination of soil with MPs and Cd. Our meta-analysis demonstrates that MPs significantly (p<0.05) increase the bioavailability of soil Cd and the accumulation of Cd in plant shoots by 6.9 and 9.3 %, respectively. The MPs facilitate Cd desorption from soils through direct adsorption via surface complexation and physical adsorption, as well as indirectly by modifying soil physicochemical properties, such as pH and dissolved organic carbon, and altering soil microbial diversity. These interactions augment the bioavailability of Cd, along with MPs, adversely affect plant growth and its physiological functions. Moreover, the ingestion of MPs and Cd through the food chain significantly enhances the bioaccessibility of Cd and exacerbates histopathological alterations in human tissues, thereby amplifying the associated health risks. This review provides insights into the coexistence of MPs and Cd and their synergistic effects on soil-plant-human systems, emphasizing the need for further research in this critical subject area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengyu Huang
- Key Laboratory of Green Utilization of Critical Non-metallic Mineral Resources, Ministry of Education, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, China; College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Li Chen
- Key Laboratory of Green Utilization of Critical Non-metallic Mineral Resources, Ministry of Education, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, China; College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Xing Yang
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China.
| | - Paramsothy Jeyakumar
- Environmental Sciences Group, School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Private Bag 11 222, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - Zhe Wang
- College of Environment and Resources, Southwest University of Science & Technology, Mianyang 621010, China
| | - Shiyong Sun
- College of Environment and Resources, Southwest University of Science & Technology, Mianyang 621010, China
| | - Tianyi Qiu
- Key Laboratory of Green Utilization of Critical Non-metallic Mineral Resources, Ministry of Education, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Yi Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Green Utilization of Critical Non-metallic Mineral Resources, Ministry of Education, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Min Huang
- Key Laboratory of Green Utilization of Critical Non-metallic Mineral Resources, Ministry of Education, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Hailong Wang
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528000, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China
| | - Linchuan Fang
- Key Laboratory of Green Utilization of Critical Non-metallic Mineral Resources, Ministry of Education, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, China; College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.
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14
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Liava V, Golia EE. Effect of microplastics used in agronomic practices on agricultural soil properties and plant functions: Potential contribution to the circular economy of rural areas. WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTES AND PUBLIC CLEANSING ASSOCIATION, ISWA 2024; 42:634-650. [PMID: 38520089 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x241234234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
The extensive use of plastic materials and their improper disposal results in high amounts of plastic waste in the environment. Aging of plastics leads to their breakdown into smaller particles, such as microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics. This research investigates plastics used in agricultural practices as they contribute to MP pollution in agricultural soils. The distribution and characteristics of MPs in agricultural soils were evaluated. In addition, the effect of MPs on soil properties, the relationship between MPs and metals in soil, the effect of MPs on the fate of pesticides in agricultural soils and the influence of MPs on plant growth were analysed, discussing legume, cereal and vegetable crops. Finally, a brief description of the main methods of chemical analysis and identification of MPs is presented. This study will contribute to a better understanding of MPs in agricultural soils and their effect on the soil-plant system. The changes induced by MPs in soil parameters can lead to potential benefits as it is possible to increase the availability of micronutrients and reduce plant uptake of toxic elements. Furthermore, although plastic pollution remains an emerging threat to soil ecosystems, their presence may result in benefits to agricultural soils, highlighting the principles of the circular economy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Liava
- Faculty of Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Environment, Soil Science Laboratory, School of Agriculture, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
- Department of Agriculture Crop Production and Rural Environment, University of Thessaly, Volos, Greece
| | - Evangelia E Golia
- Faculty of Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Environment, Soil Science Laboratory, School of Agriculture, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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15
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Chen L, Chang N, Qiu T, Wang N, Cui Q, Zhao S, Huang F, Chen H, Zeng Y, Dong F, Fang L. Meta-analysis of impacts of microplastics on plant heavy metal(loid) accumulation. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 348:123787. [PMID: 38548159 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
The co-occurrence of microplastics (MPs) and heavy metal(loid)s (HMs) has attracted growing scientific interest because of their wide distribution and environmental toxicity. Nevertheless, the interactions between MPs and HMs in soil-plant systems remain unclear. We conducted a meta-analysis with 3226 observations from 87 independent studies to quantify the impact of MPs addition on the plant biomass and HMS accumulation. Co-occurrence of MPs and HMs (except for As) induced synergistic toxicity to plant growth. MPs promoted their uptake in the shoot by 11.0% for Cd, 30.0% for Pb, and 47.1% for Cu, respectively. In contrast, MPs caused a significant decrease (22.6%, 17.9-26.9%) in the shoot As accumulation. The type and dose of MPs were correlated with the accumulation of HMs. MPs increased available concentrations of Cd, Pb, and Cu, but decreased available As concentration in soils. Meanwhile, MPs addition significantly lowered soil pH. These findings may provide explanations for MPs-mediated effects on influencing the accumulation of HMs in plants. Using a machine learning approach, we revealed that soil pH and total HMs concentration are the major contributors affecting their accumulation in shoot. Overall, our study indicated that MPs may increase the environmental risks of HMs in agroecosystems, especially metal cations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Chen
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Nan Chang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Tianyi Qiu
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Na Wang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Qingliang Cui
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Shuling Zhao
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Fengyu Huang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China; College of Environment and Resources, Southwest University of Science & Technology, Mianyang, 621010, China
| | - Hansong Chen
- College of Xingzhi, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, 321000, China
| | - Yi Zeng
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Faqin Dong
- College of Environment and Resources, Southwest University of Science & Technology, Mianyang, 621010, China
| | - Linchuan Fang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China.
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16
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Azarnejad N, Celletti S, Ghorbani M, Fedeli R, Loppi S. Dose-Dependent Effects of a Corn Starch-Based Bioplastic on Basil ( Ocimum basilicum L.): Implications for Growth, Biochemical Parameters, and Nutrient Content. TOXICS 2024; 12:80. [PMID: 38251035 PMCID: PMC10818275 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12010080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is a pressing global issue, prompting the exploration of sustainable alternatives such as bioplastics (BPs). In agriculture, BPs have gained relevance as mulching films. This study investigated the effect of the presence in the soil of different concentrations (0-3%, w/w) of a corn starch-based bioplastic on basil (Ocimum basilicum L.). The results showed that increasing bioplastic concentration reduced shoot fresh biomass production. Biochemical analyses revealed changes in the shoot in soluble protein content, biomarkers of oxidative and osmotic stress (malondialdehyde and proline, respectively), anti-radical activity, and antioxidant compounds (phenols, flavonoids, and ascorbic acid), which are indicative of plant adaptive mechanisms in response to stress caused by the presence of the different concentrations of bioplastic in the soil. Macro- and micronutrient analysis showed imbalances in nutrient uptake, with a decreased content of potassium, phosphorus, and manganese, and an increased content of magnesium, iron, and copper in the shoot at high BP concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazanin Azarnejad
- Department of Life Sciences (DSV), University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (N.A.); (M.G.); (R.F.); (S.L.)
| | - Silvia Celletti
- Department of Life Sciences (DSV), University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (N.A.); (M.G.); (R.F.); (S.L.)
- BioAgry Lab, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Majid Ghorbani
- Department of Life Sciences (DSV), University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (N.A.); (M.G.); (R.F.); (S.L.)
| | - Riccardo Fedeli
- Department of Life Sciences (DSV), University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (N.A.); (M.G.); (R.F.); (S.L.)
- BioAgry Lab, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Stefano Loppi
- Department of Life Sciences (DSV), University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (N.A.); (M.G.); (R.F.); (S.L.)
- BioAgry Lab, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
- BAT Center—Interuniversity Center for Studies on Bioinspired Agro-Environmental Technology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80138 Napoli, Italy
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