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Garai S, Bhattacharjee C, Sarkar S, Moulick D, Dey S, Jana S, Dhar A, Roy A, Mondal K, Mondal M, Mukherjee S, Ghosh S, Singh P, Ramteke P, Manna D, Hazra S, Malakar P, Banerjee H, Brahmachari K, Hossain A. Microplastics in the soil-water-food nexus: Inclusive insight into global research findings. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 946:173891. [PMID: 38885699 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173891] [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: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Nuisance imposed by biotic and abiotic stressors on diverse agroecosystems remains an area of focus for the scientific fraternity. However, emerging contaminants such as microplastics (MP) have imposed additional dimension (alone or in combinations with other stressors) in agroecosystems and keep escalating the challenges to achieve sustainability. MP are recognized as persistent anthropogenic contaminants, fetch global attention due to their unique chemical features that keeps themselves unresponsive to the decaying process. This review has been theorized to assess the current research trends (along with possible gap areas), widespread use of MP, enhancement of the harshness of heavy metals (HMs), complex interactions with physico-chemical constituents of arable soil, accumulation in the edible parts of field crops, dairy products, and other sources to penetrate the food web. So far, the available review articles are oriented to a certain aspect of MP and lack a totality when considered from in soil-water-food perspective. In short, a comprehensive perspective of the adverse effects of MP on human health has been assessed. Moreover, an agro-techno-socio-health prospective-oriented critical assessment of policies and remedial measures linked with MP has provided an extra edge over other similar articles in influential future courses of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sourav Garai
- Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Chandrima Bhattacharjee
- Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Sukamal Sarkar
- Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India.
| | - Debojyoti Moulick
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal -741235, India
| | - Saikat Dey
- Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Soujanya Jana
- Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Anannya Dhar
- Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Anirban Roy
- Division of Genetics and Plant Breeding, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Krishnendu Mondal
- Dhaanyaganga Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Sargachhi, West Bengal, India
| | - Mousumi Mondal
- School of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, The Neotia University, Sarisha, West Bengal, India
| | - Siddhartha Mukherjee
- Division of Agriculture, Faculty Centre for Agriculture, Rural and Tribal Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Morabadi, Ranchi, Jharkhand, India
| | - Samrat Ghosh
- Emergent Ventures India, Gurugram, Haryana, India
| | - Puja Singh
- Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Natural Resource Management, Horticultural College, Birsa Agricultural University, Khuntpani, Chaibasa, Jharkhand, India
| | - Pratik Ramteke
- Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, MS 444104, India
| | - Dipak Manna
- School of Biological Sciences, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Shreyasee Hazra
- School of Biological Sciences, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Pushkar Malakar
- School of Biological Sciences, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Hirak Banerjee
- Regional Research Station (CSZ), Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Kakdwip, West Bengal, India
| | - Koushik Brahmachari
- Department of Agronomy, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, West Bengal, India
| | - Akbar Hossain
- Division of Soil Science, Bangladesh Wheat and Maize Research Institute, Dinajpur 5200, Bangladesh
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Sunil S, Bhagwat G, Vincent SGT, Palanisami T. Microplastics and climate change: the global impacts of a tiny driver. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 946:174160. [PMID: 38909818 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution and climate change, the two seemingly distinct phenomena of global concern, are interconnected through various pathways. The connecting links between the two include the biological carbon pumps in the oceans, the sea ice, the plastisphere involved in biogeochemical cycling and the direct emissions of greenhouse gases from microplastics. On one hand, the presence of microplastics in the water column disrupts the balance of the natural carbon sequestration by affecting the key players in the pumping of carbon, such as the phytoplankton and zooplankton. On the other hand, the effect of microplastics on the sea ice in Polar Regions is two-way, as the ice caps are transformed into sinks and sources of microplastics and at the same time, the microplastics can enhance the melting of ice by reducing the albedo. Microplastics may have more potential than larger plastic fragments to release greenhouse gases (GHGs). Microbe-mediated emission of GHGs from soils is also now altered by the microplastics present in the soil. Plastisphere, the emerging microbiome in aquatic environments, can also contribute to climate change as it hosts complex networks of microbes, many of which are involved in greenhouse gas production. To combat a global stressor like climate change, it needs to be addressed with a holistic approach and this begins with tracing the various stressors like microplastic pollution that can aggravate the impacts of climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syama Sunil
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695034, India
| | - Geetika Bhagwat
- Global Innovative Centre for Advanced Nanomaterials (GICAN), School of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | | | - Thava Palanisami
- Global Innovative Centre for Advanced Nanomaterials (GICAN), School of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
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Dike S, Apte SD. Impact of microplastics on strength parameters of clayey, Sandy, silty soil: A comparative assessment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 946:174161. [PMID: 38909809 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
The comparative assessment of a variety of microplastic contamination on various soil types hasn't been extensively explored in existing literature. The present study focuses on the comparative analysis of the impact of environmentally relevant concentrations of LDPE, HDPE, and PVC microplastic contamination (2 %, 4 %, and 6 %) on index properties and strength parameters of sandy, silty and clayey soil types at varying observation days 5,10,15,20,25, and 30 days. Extensive experimental investigations are carried out to understand the effect of contamination on moisture content, specific gravity, liquid limit, plastic limit, plasticity index, optimum moisture content, maximum dry density, and shear strength parameters of the respective soil type. It is observed that the depletion in Atterberg's limits is found more in the case of clayey soil as compared to silty soil because clayey soils consist of large specific surface areas leading to van der Waals force of attraction being the predominant force between particles, compared with silty soil which is affected by microplastic addition leading to decrease in net attractive forces. In the case of clayey soil maximum depletion of liquid limit up to 168 %, plastic limit up to 33 %, plasticity index (136 %), and optimum moisture content (9.04 %) is observed for PVC microplastic. The deduction in maximum dry density values is observed more for sandy soil (0.59 g/cc) followed by silty soil (0.21 g/cc) and clayey soil (0.12 g/cc). The maximum depletion of moisture content(delta-8 %), shear strength (delta-0.89 kg/cm2), and maximum dry density (delta-0.44 g/cc) is observed in the case of sandy soil for PVC and LDPE microplastic contamination. Significant depletion in optimum moisture content is observed in the case of clayey soil (9.57 %) compared to sandy (5.62 %) and silty soil (5.3 %). An increase in cohesion is observed for sandy soil (0.09 kg/cm2) and a decrease for clayey (0.19 kg/cm2) and silty soil (0.19 kg/cm2). The angle of internal friction is reduced in the case of clayey soil (∆-14.380) followed by silty soil (∆-11.230) and sandy soil (∆-11.020). For silty soil maximum depletion of specific gravity(delta-1.06) and cohesion (0.192 kg/cm2) is observed for LDPE and HDPE microplastic. The sandy soil type is most affected due to microplastic contamination irrespective of the type of microplastic contamination followed by clayey soil and the silty soil type is least affected. The maximum overall shear strength is reduced due to microplastic contamination in all the soil types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangita Dike
- Department of Civil Engineering, Symbiosis Institute of Technology (SIT), Symbiosis International (Deemed University) (SIU), Pune, India
| | - Sayali D Apte
- Department of Civil Engineering, Symbiosis Institute of Technology (SIT), Symbiosis International (Deemed University) (SIU), Pune, India.
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Zhou Z, Hua J, Xue J, Yu C. Differential impacts of polyethylene microplastic and additives on soil nitrogen cycling: A deeper dive into microbial interactions and transformation mechanisms. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 942:173771. [PMID: 38851351 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173771] [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: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
The impact of microplastics and their additives on soil nutrient cycling, particularly through microbial mechanisms, remains underexplored. This study investigated the effects of polyethylene microplastics, polyethylene resin, and plastic additives on soil nitrogen content, physicochemical properties, nitrogen cycling functional genes, microbial composition, and nitrogen transformation rates. Results showed that all amendments increased total nitrogen but decreased dissolved total nitrogen. Polyethylene microplastics and additives increased dissolved organic nitrogen, while polyethylene resin reduced it and exhibited higher microbial biomass. Amendments reduced or did not change inorganic nitrogen levels, with additives showing the lowest values. Polyethylene resin favored microbial nitrogen immobilization, while additives were more inhibitory. Amendment type and content significantly interacted with nitrogen cycling genes and microbial composition. Distinct functional microbial biomarkers and network structures were identified for different amendments. Polyethylene microplastics had higher gross ammonification, nitrification, and immobilization rates, followed by polyethylene resin and additives. Nitrogen transformation was driven by multiple functional genes, with Proteobacteria playing a significant role. Soil physicochemical properties affected nitrogen content through transformation rates, with C/N ratio having an indirect effect and water holding capacity directly impacting it. In summary, plastic additives, compared to polyethylene microplastics and resin, are less conducive to nitrogen degradation and microbial immobilization, exert significant effects on microbial community structure, inhibit transformation rates, and ultimately impact nitrogen cycling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhidong Zhou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for the Research and Utilization of Plant Resources, Institute of Botany, Jiangsu Province and Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China; Nanjing Botanical Garden Mem. Sun Yat-Sen, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Jianfeng Hua
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for the Research and Utilization of Plant Resources, Institute of Botany, Jiangsu Province and Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China; Nanjing Botanical Garden Mem. Sun Yat-Sen, Nanjing 210014, China.
| | - Jianhui Xue
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for the Research and Utilization of Plant Resources, Institute of Botany, Jiangsu Province and Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China; Nanjing Botanical Garden Mem. Sun Yat-Sen, Nanjing 210014, China; College of Biology and the Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Chaoguang Yu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for the Research and Utilization of Plant Resources, Institute of Botany, Jiangsu Province and Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China; Nanjing Botanical Garden Mem. Sun Yat-Sen, Nanjing 210014, China
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Liang X, Ye J, Xue Y, Aili T, Han S, Zhang J, Meng S, Aimaiti R, Zhang M, Jia Z, Gomiero A, Wang W, Yang J. Microplastics and their interaction with microorganisms in Bosten Lake sediment. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 261:122060. [PMID: 39018903 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.122060] [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: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), discovered in oceans, lakes, and rivers, can infiltrate the food chain through ingestion by organisms, potentially posing health risks. Our research is the first to study the composition and distribution of MPs in Bosten Lake's sediment. In May, the average abundance of MPs was 0.95±0.72 particles per 10 gs, and in October, it was 0.90±0.61 particles per 10 gs. Bohu Town had the highest MP abundance, with 1.75±0.35 particles per 10 gs in spring and 2 ± 0 particles per 10 gs in autumn. In May, 53 % of the MPs were transparent, while in October, black MPs constituted 58 %. The predominant morphology was fibrous, accounting for 61 % of the total. MPs in the size range of 0.2-1 mm made up 91 % and 66 % of the total in May and October, respectively. The most common types of MPs in May were polyethylene terephthalate (PET) at 40 % and polyethylene (PE) at 26 %. In October, PET was the most prevalent at 71 %, followed by poly(ether-ether-ketone)(PEEK) at 11 %. Certain microbial taxa, such as Actinobacteriota, Pseudomonas, and Vicinamibacteraceae, associated with MP degradation or complex carbon chain breakdown, were notably enriched in sediment areas with high MP concentrations. A significant positive correlation was observed between the abundance of MPs in sediments and Actinobacteriota. Additionally, the abundance of Thiobacillus, Ca.competibacter, and other bacteria involved in soil element cycling showed a significant positive correlation with the organic matter content in the sediments. Anaerobic bacteria like Thermoanaerobacterium displayed a significant positive correlation with water depth. Our study reveals the presence, composition, and distribution of MPs in Bosten Lake's sediments, shedding light on their potential ecological impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaorui Liang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 831500, China
| | - Jing Ye
- College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 831500, China
| | - Yu Xue
- College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 831500, China
| | - Tuerxunnayi Aili
- College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 831500, China
| | - Shibin Han
- College of Computer Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 831500, China
| | - Jianpin Zhang
- Bayingoleng Ecological Environment Monitoring Station, Bayingol League Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang 841000, China
| | - Shanshan Meng
- Bayingoleng Ecological Environment Monitoring Station, Bayingol League Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang 841000, China
| | - Reheman Aimaiti
- Bayingoleng Ecological Environment Monitoring Station, Bayingol League Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang 841000, China
| | - Minwei Zhang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 831500, China
| | - Zhenhong Jia
- College of Computer Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 831500, China
| | | | - Wei Wang
- Department of Chemistry and Centre for Pharmacy, University of Bergen, Bergen 5007, Norway.
| | - Jie Yang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 831500, China.
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Fang J, Sheng Z, Liu J, Li C, Lyu T, Wang Z, Zhang H. Interference of microplastics on autotrophic microbiome in paddy soils: Shifts in carbon fixation rate, structure, abundance, co-occurrence, and assembly process. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 474:134783. [PMID: 38824776 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134783] [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: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Autotrophic microorganisms play a crucial role in soil CO2 assimilation. Although microplastic pollution is recognized as a significant global concern, its precise impact on carbon sequestration by autotrophic microorganisms in agroecosystem soil remains poorly understood. This study conducted microcosm experiments to explore how conventional polystyrene (PS) and biodegradable poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) microplastics affect carbon fixation rates (CFRs) and the community characteristics of soil autotrophic microorganisms in paddy agroecosystems. The results showed that compared with the control groups, 0.5 % and 1 % microplastic treatments significantly reduced soil CFRs by 11.8 - 24.5 % and 18.7 - 32.3 %, respectively. PS microplastics exerted a stronger inhibition effect on CFRs than PHBV microplastics in bulk soil. However, no significant difference was observed in the inhibition of CFRs by both types of microplastics in rhizosphere soils. Additionally, PS and PHBV microplastics altered the structure of autotrophic microbial communities, resulting in more stochastically dominated assembly and looser, more fragile coexistence networks compared to control groups. Moreover, microplastics drove the changes in autotrophic microbial carbon fixation primarily through their direct interference and the indirect effect by increasing soil organic carbon levels. Our findings enhance the understanding and predictive capabilities regarding the impacts of microplastic pollution on carbon sinks in agricultural soils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaohui Fang
- School of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, Qufu 273100, China
| | - Zihao Sheng
- School of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, Qufu 273100, China
| | - Jian Liu
- Environment Research Institute, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Changchao Li
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Tianshu Lyu
- School of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, Qufu 273100, China
| | - Zhenyang Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, Qufu 273100, China
| | - Honghai Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, Qufu 273100, China.
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Zhao W, Zheng X, Liu J, Sui Y, Wang Y, Luo P, Zhu X, Wu W, Gu W, Liu X. Ceratophyllum demersum alleviates microplastics uptake and physiological stress responses in aquatic organisms, an overlooked ability. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 474:134573. [PMID: 38824779 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134573] [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: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
It has been demonstrated that microplastics (MPs) may be inadvertently ingested by aquatic animals, causing harm to their physiological functions and potentially entering the food chain, thereby posing risks to human food safety. To achieve an environmentally friendly and efficient reduction of MPs in freshwater environments, this experiment investigates the depuration effect of C. demersum on MPs using three common aquatic animals: Macrobrachium nipponense, Corbicula fluminea, and Bellamya aeruginosa as research subjects. The amounts of MPs, digestive enzyme activity, oxidative stress index, and energy metabolism enzyme activity in the digestive and non-digestive systems of three aquatic animals were measured on exposure days 1, 3, and 7 and on depuration days 1 and 3. The results indicated that the depuration effect of C. demersum and the species interaction were significant for the whole individual. Concerning digestive tissue, C. demersum was the most effective in purifying B. aeruginosa. When subjected to short-term exposure to MPs, C. demersum displayed a superior depuration effect. Among non-digestive tissues, C. demersum exhibited the earliest purifying effect on C. fluminea. Additionally, C. demersum alleviated physiological responses caused by MPs. In conclusion, this study underscores C. demersum as a promising new method for removing MPs from aquatic organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weihong Zhao
- College of Marine and Biological Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224000, China
| | - Xirui Zheng
- College of Marine and Biological Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224000, China; College of Fisheries and Life Science, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Jintao Liu
- College of Marine and Biological Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224000, China
| | - Yanming Sui
- College of Marine and Biological Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224000, China.
| | - Yuning Wang
- College of Marine and Biological Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224000, China; Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230000, China
| | - Pan Luo
- College of Marine and Biological Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224000, China; Dalian Ocean University, Dalian 116000, China
| | - Xi Zhu
- College of Marine and Biological Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224000, China
| | - Wenjing Wu
- College of Marine and Biological Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224000, China
| | - Wen Gu
- College of Marine and Biological Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224000, China
| | - Xingyu Liu
- College of Marine and Biological Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224000, China
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Wei X, Tian X, Zhao K, Yu X, Chen Q, Zhang L, Liao D, Penttinen P, Gu Y. Bacterial community in the buckwheat rhizosphere responds more sensitively to single microplastics in lead-contaminated soil compared to the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi community. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 281:116683. [PMID: 38964061 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116683] [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: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Soil pollution by microplastics (MPs), defined as plastic particles <5 mm, and heavy metals is a significant environmental issue. However, studies on the co-contamination effects of MPs and heavy metals on buckwheat rhizosphere microorganisms, especially on the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) community, are limited. We introduced low (0.01 g kg-1) and high doses of lead (Pb) (2 g kg-1) along with polyethylene (PE) and polylactic acid (PLA) MPs, both individually and in combination, into soil and assessed soil properties, buckwheat growth, and rhizosphere bacterial and AMF communities in a 40-day pot experiment. Notable alterations were observed in soil properties such as pH, alkaline hydrolyzable nitrogen (AN), and the available Pb (APb). High-dose Pb combined with PLA-MPs hindered buckwheat growth. Compared to the control, bacterial Chao1 richness and Shannon diversity were lower in the high dose Pb with PLA treatment, and differentially abundant bacteria were mainly detected in the high Pb dose treatments. Variations in bacterial communities correlated with APb, pH and AN. Overall, the AMF community composition remained largely consistent across all treatments. This phenomenon may be due to fungi having lower nutritional demands than bacteria. Stochastic processes played a relatively important role in the assembly of both bacterial and AMF communities. In summary, MPs appeared to amplify both the positive and negative effects of high Pb doses on the buckwheat rhizosphere bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xieluyao Wei
- College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Xianrui Tian
- College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Ke Zhao
- College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Xiumei Yu
- College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Qiang Chen
- College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Lingzi Zhang
- College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Decong Liao
- College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Petri Penttinen
- College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China.
| | - Yunfu Gu
- College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China.
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Tayyab M, Kazmi SSUH, Pastorino P, Saqib HSA, Yaseen ZM, Hanif MS, Islam W. Microplastics in agroecosystems: Soil-plant dynamics and effective remediation approaches. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 362:142641. [PMID: 38906184 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142641] [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: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Increasing microplastic (MP) pollution, primarily from anthropogenic sources such as plastic film mulching, waste degradation, and agricultural practices, has emerged as a pressing global environmental concern. This review examines the direct and indirect effects of MPs on crops, both in isolation and in conjunction with other contaminants, to elucidate their combined toxicological impacts. Organic fertilizers predominantly contain 78.6% blue, 9.5% black, and 8.3% red MPs, while irrigation water in agroecosystems contains 66.2% white, 15.4% blue, and 8.1% black MPs, ranging from 0-1 mm to 4-5 mm in size. We elucidate five pivotal insights: Firstly, soil MPs exhibit affinity towards crop roots, seeds, and vascular systems, impeding water and nutrient uptake. Secondly, MPs induce oxidative stress in crops, disrupting vital metabolic processes. Thirdly, leachates from MPs elicit cytotoxic and genotoxic responses in crops. Fourthly, MPs disrupt soil biotic and abiotic dynamics, influencing water and nutrient availability for crops. Lastly, the cumulative effects of MPs and co-existing contaminants in agricultural soils detrimentally affect crop yield. Thus, we advocate agronomic interventions as practical remedies. These include biochar input, application of growth regulators, substitution of plastic mulch with crop residues, promotion of biological degradation, and encouragement of crop diversification. However, the efficacy of these measures varies based on MP type and dosage. As MP volumes increase, exploring alternative mitigation strategies such as bio-based plastics and environmentally friendly biotechnological solutions is imperative. Recognizing the persistence of plastics, policymakers should enact legislation favoring the mitigation and substitution of non-degradable materials with bio-derived or compostable alternatives. This review demonstrates the urgent need for collective efforts to alleviate MP pollution and emphasizes sustainable interventions for agricultural ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Tayyab
- Institute of Marine Sciences and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China.
| | - Syed Shabi Ul Hassan Kazmi
- Institute of Marine Sciences and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Urban Environment Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Paolo Pastorino
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, 10154, Torino, Italy
| | - Hafiz Sohaib Ahmed Saqib
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yunnan, 666303, China
| | - Zaher Mundher Yaseen
- Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals, Dhahran, 31261, Saudi Arabia; Interdisciplinary Research Center for Membranes and Water Security, King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals, Dhahran, 31261, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Sajid Hanif
- Center for Agricultural Resources Research, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050021, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Waqar Islam
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Desert Plant Roots Ecology and Vegetation Restoration, Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi, 830011, China
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10
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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] [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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11
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Wang X, Li J, Wang D, Sun C, Zhang X, Zhao J, Teng J, Wang Q. Unveiling microplastic's role in nitrogen cycling: Metagenomic insights from estuarine sediment microcosms. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 359:124591. [PMID: 39043311 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Marine microplastics (MPs) pollution, with rivers as a major source, leads to MPs accumulation in estuarine sediments, which are also nitrogen cycling hotspots. However, the impact of MPs on nitrogen cycling in estuarine sediments has rarely been documented. In this study, we conducted microcosm experiment to investigate the effects of commonly encountered polyethylene (PE) and polystyrene (PS) MPs, with two MPs concentrations (0.3% and 3% wet sediment weight) based on environmental concentration considerations and dose-response effects, on sediment dissolved oxygen (DO) diffusion capacity and microbial communities using microelectrode system and metagenomic analysis respectively. The results indicated that high concentrations of PE-MPs inhibited DO diffusion during the mid-phase of the experiment, an effect that dissipated in the later stages. Metagenomic analysis revealed that MP treatments reduced the relative abundance of dominant microbial colonies in the sediments. The PCoA results demonstrated that MPs altered the microbial community structure, particularly evident under high concentration PE-MPs treatments. Functional analysis related to the nitrogen cycle suggested that PS-MPs promoted the nitrification, denitrification, and DNRA processes, but inhibited the ANRA process, while PE-MPs had an inhibitory effect on the nitrate reduction process and the ANRA process. Additionally, the high concentration of PE-MPs treatment significantly stimulated the abundance of genus (Bacillus) by 34.1% and genes (lip, pnbA) by 100-187.5% associated with plastic degradation, respectively. Overall, in terms of microbial community structure and the abundance of nitrogen cycling functional genes, PE- and PS- MPs exhibit both similarities and differences in their impact on nitrogen cycling. Our findings highlight the complexity of MP effects on nitrogen cycling in estuarine sediments and high concentrations of PE-MP stimulated plastic-degrading genus and genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodan Wang
- Research and Development Center for Efficient Utilization of Coastal Bioresources, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai, 264003, PR China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, Qingdao, 266237, PR China; Muping Coastal Environment Research Station, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai, 264003, PR China
| | - Jiasen Li
- Research and Development Center for Efficient Utilization of Coastal Bioresources, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai, 264003, PR China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, Qingdao, 266237, PR China; Muping Coastal Environment Research Station, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai, 264003, PR China
| | - Dongyu Wang
- Research and Development Center for Efficient Utilization of Coastal Bioresources, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai, 264003, PR China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, Qingdao, 266237, PR China; Muping Coastal Environment Research Station, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai, 264003, PR China
| | - Chaofan Sun
- Research and Development Center for Efficient Utilization of Coastal Bioresources, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai, 264003, PR China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, Qingdao, 266237, PR China; Muping Coastal Environment Research Station, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai, 264003, PR China
| | - Xiaoli Zhang
- Research and Development Center for Efficient Utilization of Coastal Bioresources, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai, 264003, PR China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, Qingdao, 266237, PR China
| | - Jianmin Zhao
- Research and Development Center for Efficient Utilization of Coastal Bioresources, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai, 264003, PR China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, Qingdao, 266237, PR China; Muping Coastal Environment Research Station, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai, 264003, PR China
| | - Jia Teng
- Research and Development Center for Efficient Utilization of Coastal Bioresources, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai, 264003, PR China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, Qingdao, 266237, PR China; Muping Coastal Environment Research Station, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai, 264003, PR China
| | - Qing Wang
- Research and Development Center for Efficient Utilization of Coastal Bioresources, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai, 264003, PR China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, Qingdao, 266237, PR China; Muping Coastal Environment Research Station, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai, 264003, PR China.
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12
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Gao B, Gao F, Zhang X, Li Y, Yao H. Effects of different sizes of microplastic particles on soil respiration, enzyme activities, microbial communities, and seed germination. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 933:173100. [PMID: 38735330 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173100] [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: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are emerging pollutants of terrestrial ecosystems. The impacts of MP particle size on terrestrial systems remain unclear. The current study aimed to investigate the effects of six particle sizes (i.e., 4500, 1500, 500, 50, 5, and 0.5 μm) of polyethylene (PE) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) on soil respiration, enzyme activity, bacteria, fungi, protists, and seed germination. MPs significantly promoted soil respiration, and the stimulating effects of PE were the strongest for medium and small-sized (0.5-1500 μm) particles, while those of PVC were the strongest for small particle sizes (0.5-50 μm). Large-sized (4500 μm) PE and all sizes of PVC significantly improved soil urease activity, while medium-sized (1500 μm) PVC significantly improved soil invertase activity. MPs altered the soil microbial community diversity, and the effects were especially pronounced for medium and small-sized (0.5-1500 μm) particles of PE and PVC on bacteria and fungi and small-sized (0.5 μm) particles of PE on protists. The impacts of MPs on bacteria and fungi were greater than on protists. The seed germination rate of Brassica chinensis decreased gradually with the decrease in PE MPs particle size. Therefore, to reduce the impact of MPs on soil ecosystems, effective measures should be taken to avoid the transformation of MPs into smaller particles in soil environmental management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Gao
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, People's Republic of China; College of Tourism & Landscape Architecture, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin 541004, People's Republic of China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, People's Republic of China
| | - Fuyun Gao
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, People's Republic of China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, People's Republic of China
| | - Xingfeng Zhang
- College of Tourism & Landscape Architecture, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin 541004, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaying Li
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, People's Republic of China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, People's Republic of China
| | - Huaiying Yao
- Research Center for Environmental Ecology and Engineering, School of Environmental Ecology and Biological Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, 206 Guanggu 1st road, Wuhan 430205, People's Republic of China.
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13
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Wang Y, Zhang F, Zhang G, Wang H, Zhu S, Zhang H, He T, Guo T. Trace metals coupled with plasticisers in microplastics strengthen the denitrification function of the soil microbiome in the Qinghai Tibetan Plateau. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 472:134593. [PMID: 38749249 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134593] [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: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Due to the lack of research on the co-effects of microplastics and trace metals in the environment on nitrogen cycling-related functional microorganisms, the occurrence of microplastics and one of their plasticisers, phthalate esters, as well as trace metals, were determined in soils and river sediments in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Relationship between microplastics and phthalate esters in the area was determined; the co-effects of these potentially toxic materials, and key factors and pathways affecting nitrogen functions were further explored. Significant correlations between fibre- and film-shaped microplastics and phthalate esters were detected in the soils from the plateau. Copper, lead, cadmium and di-n-octyl phthalate detected significantly affected nitrogen cycling-related functional microorganisms. The co-existence of di-n-octyl phthalate and copper in soils synergistically stimulated the expression of denitrification microorganisms nirS gene and "nitrate_reduction". Additionally, di-n-octyl phthalate and dimethyl phthalate more significantly affected the variation of nitrogen cycling-related functional genes than the number of microplastics. In a dimethyl phthalate- and cadmium-polluted area, nitrogen cycling-related functional genes, especially nirK gene, were more sensitive and stressed. Overall, phthalate esters originated from microplastics play a key role in nitrogen cycling-related functions than microplastics themselves, moreover, the synergy between di-n-octyl phthalate and copper strengthen the expression of denitrification functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonglu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Land Surface Pattern and Simulation, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Fengsong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Land Surface Pattern and Simulation, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.
| | - Guixiang Zhang
- School of Environment and Resources, Taiyuan University of Science and Technology, Taiyuan 030024, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Huaxin Wang
- National Plateau Wetlands Research Center, Southwest Forestry University, Kunming 650224, China
| | - Shiliang Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Land Surface Pattern and Simulation, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Hongyu Zhang
- School of Environment and Resources, Taiyuan University of Science and Technology, Taiyuan 030024, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Tiantian He
- School of Environment and Resources, Taiyuan University of Science and Technology, Taiyuan 030024, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Tingyu Guo
- School of Environment and Resources, Taiyuan University of Science and Technology, Taiyuan 030024, Shanxi Province, China
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14
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Song X, Li C, Qiu Z, Wang C, Zeng Q. Ecotoxicological effects of polyethylene microplastics and lead (Pb) on the biomass, activity, and community diversity of soil microbes. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 252:119012. [PMID: 38704010 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.119012] [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: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics and heavy metals are ubiquitous and persistent contaminants that are widely distributed worldwide, yet little is known about the effects of their interaction on soil ecosystems. A soil incubation experiment was conducted to investigate the individual and combined effects of polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs) and lead (Pb) on soil enzymatic activities, microbial biomass, respiration rate, and community diversity. The results indicate that the presence of PE-MPs notably reduced soil pH and elevated soil Pb bioavailability, potentially exacerbated the combined toxicity on the biogeochemical cycles of soil nutrients, microbial biomass carbon and nitrogen, and the activities of soil urease, sucrase, and alkaline phosphatase. Soil CO2 emissions increased by 7.9% with PE-MPs alone, decreased by 46.3% with single Pb, and reduced by 69.4% with PE-MPs and Pb co-exposure, compared to uncontaminated soils. Specifically, the presence of PE-MPs and Pb, individually and in combination, facilitated the soil metabolic quotient, leading to reduced microbial metabolic efficiency. Moreover, the addition of Pb and PE-MPs modified the composition of the microbial community, leading to the enrichment of specific taxa. Tax4Fun analysis showed the effects of Pb, PE-MPs and their combination on the biogeochemical processes and ecological functions of microbes were mainly by altering amino acid metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, membrane transport, and signal transduction. These findings offer valuable insights into the ecotoxicological effects of combined PE-MPs and Pb on soil microbial dynamics, reveals key assembly mechanisms and environmental drivers, and highlights the potential threat of MPs and heavy metals to the multifunctionality of soil ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiliang Song
- College of Life Sciences, Dezhou University, De'zhou, 253023, China
| | - Changjiang Li
- School of Environment Science & Spatial Informatics, China University of Mining & Technology, Xuzhou, 221116, China
| | - Zhennan Qiu
- College of Life Sciences, Dezhou University, De'zhou, 253023, China
| | - Chenghui Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Dezhou University, De'zhou, 253023, China
| | - Qiangcheng Zeng
- College of Life Sciences, Dezhou University, De'zhou, 253023, China.
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15
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Zhao S, Rillig MC, Bing H, Cui Q, Qiu T, Cui Y, Penuelas J, Liu B, Bian S, Monikh FA, Chen J, Fang L. Microplastic pollution promotes soil respiration: A global-scale meta-analysis. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2024; 30:e17415. [PMID: 39005227 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.17415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution likely affects global soil carbon (C) dynamics, yet it remains uncertain how and to what extent MP influences soil respiration. Here, we report on a global meta-analysis to determine the effects of MP pollution on the soil microbiome and CO2 emission. We found that MP pollution significantly increased the contents of soil organic C (SOC) (21%) and dissolved organic C (DOC) (12%), the activity of fluorescein diacetate hydrolase (FDAse) (10%), and microbial biomass (17%), but led to a decrease in microbial diversity (3%). In particular, increases in soil C components and microbial biomass further promote CO2 emission (25%) from soil, but with a much higher effect of MPs on these emissions than on soil C components and microbial biomass. The effect could be attributed to the opposite effects of MPs on microbial biomass vs. diversity, as soil MP accumulation recruited some functionally important bacteria and provided additional C substrates for specific heterotrophic microorganisms, while inhibiting the growth of autotrophic taxa (e.g., Chloroflexi, Cyanobacteria). This study reveals that MP pollution can increase soil CO2 emission by causing shifts in the soil microbiome. These results underscore the potential importance of plastic pollution for terrestrial C fluxes, and thus climate feedbacks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuling Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, The Research Center of Soil and Water Conservation and Ecological Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Ministry of Education, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Ministry of Water Resources, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | | | - Haijian Bing
- Institute of Mountain Hazards and Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu, China
| | - Qingliang Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, The Research Center of Soil and Water Conservation and Ecological Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Ministry of Education, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Ministry of Water Resources, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Tianyi Qiu
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Yongxing Cui
- Institute of Biology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Josep Penuelas
- CSIC, Global Ecology Unit CREAF- CSIC- UAB, Bellaterra, Catalonia, Spain
- CREAF, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Caalonia, Spain
| | - Baiyan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, The Research Center of Soil and Water Conservation and Ecological Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Ministry of Education, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Ministry of Water Resources, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shiqi Bian
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Fazel Abdolahpur Monikh
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies, and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec Bendlova 1409/7, Liberec, Czech Republic
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Linchuan Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, The Research Center of Soil and Water Conservation and Ecological Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Ministry of Education, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Ministry of Water Resources, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Green Utilization of Critical Non-metallic Mineral Resources, Ministry of Education, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
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16
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Kurniawan TA, Mohyuddin A, Othman MHD, Goh HH, Zhang D, Anouzla A, Aziz F, Casila JC, Ali I, Pasaribu B. Beyond surface: Unveiling ecological and economic ramifications of microplastic pollution in the oceans. WATER ENVIRONMENT RESEARCH : A RESEARCH PUBLICATION OF THE WATER ENVIRONMENT FEDERATION 2024; 96:e11070. [PMID: 39005104 DOI: 10.1002/wer.11070] [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: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Every year, the global production of plastic waste reaches a staggering 400 million metric tons (Mt), precipitating adverse consequences for the environment, food safety, and biodiversity as it degrades into microplastics (MPs). The multifaceted nature of MP pollution, coupled with its intricate physiological impacts, underscores the pressing need for comprehensive policies and legislative frameworks. Such measures, alongside advancements in technology, hold promise in averting ecological catastrophe in the oceans. Mandated legislation represents a pivotal step towards restoring oceanic health and securing the well-being of the planet. This work offers an overview of the policy hurdles, legislative initiatives, and prospective strategies for addressing global pollution due to MP. Additionally, this work explores innovative approaches that yield fresh insights into combating plastic pollution across various sectors. Emphasizing the importance of a global plastics treaty, the article underscores its potential to galvanize collaborative efforts in mitigating MP pollution's deleterious effects on marine ecosystems. Successful implementation of such a treaty could revolutionize the plastics economy, steering it towards a circular, less polluting model operating within planetary boundaries. Failure to act decisively risks exacerbating the scourge of MP pollution and its attendant repercussions on both humanity and the environment. Central to this endeavor are the formulation, content, and execution of the treaty itself, which demand careful consideration. While recognizing that a global plastics treaty is not a panacea, it serves as a mechanism for enhancing plastics governance and elevating global ambitions towards achieving zero plastic pollution by 2040. Adopting a life cycle approach to plastic management allows for a nuanced understanding of possible trade-offs between environmental impact and economic growth, guiding the selection of optimal solutions with socio-economic implications in mind. By embracing a comprehensive strategy that integrates legislative measures and technological innovations, we can substantially reduce the influx of marine plastic litter at its sources, safeguarding the oceans for future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ayesha Mohyuddin
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan Othman
- Advanced Membrane Technology Research Centre (AMTEC), Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), Skudai, Johor Bahru, Malaysia
| | - Hui Hwang Goh
- School of Electrical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Dongdong Zhang
- School of Electrical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Abdelkader Anouzla
- Department of Process Engineering and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, University Hassan II of Casablanca, Mohammedia, Morocco
| | - Faissal Aziz
- Laboratory of Water, Biodiversity and Climate Changes, Semlalia Faculty of Sciences, B.P. 2390, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Joan C Casila
- Land and Water Resources Engineering Division, Institute of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, College of Engineering and Agro-industrial Technology, University of the Philippines-Los Baños, Los Baños, Philippines
| | - Imran Ali
- Department of Chemistry, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
| | - Buntora Pasaribu
- Department of Marine Science, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, Padjadjaran University, Jatinangor, Indonesia
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17
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Iqbal S, Xu J, Saleem Arif M, Shakoor A, Worthy FR, Gui H, Khan S, Bu D, Nader S, Ranjitkar S. Could soil microplastic pollution exacerbate climate change? A meta-analysis of greenhouse gas emissions and global warming potential. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 252:118945. [PMID: 38631466 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118945] [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: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics pollution and climate change are primarily investigated in isolation, despite their joint threat to the environment. Greenhouse gases (GHGs) are emitted during: the production of plastic and rubber, the use and degradation of plastic, and after contamination of environment. This is the first meta-analysis to assess underlying causal relationships and the influence of likely mediators. We included 60 peer-reviewed empirical studies; estimating GHGs emissions effect size and global warming potential (GWP), according to key microplastics properties and soil conditions. We investigated interrelationships with microbe functional gene expression. Overall, microplastics contamination was associated with increased GHGs emissions, with the strongest effect (60%) on CH4 emissions. Polylactic-acid caused 32% higher CO2 emissions, but only 1% of total GWP. Phenol-formaldehyde had the greatest (175%) GWP via 182% increased N2O emissions. Only polystyrene resulted in reduced GWP by 50%, due to N2O mitigation. Polyethylene caused the maximum (60%) CH4 emissions. Shapes of microplastics differed in GWP: fiber had the greatest GWP (66%) whereas beads reduced GWP by 53%. Films substantially increased emissions of all GHGs: 14% CO2, 10% N2O and 60% CH4. Larger-sized microplastics had higher GWP (125%) due to their 9% CO2 and 63% N2O emissions. GWP rose sharply if soil microplastics content exceeded 0.5%. Higher CO2 emissions, ranging from 4% to 20%, arose from soil which was either fine, saturated or had high-carbon content. Higher N2O emissions, ranging from 10% to 95%, arose from soils that had either medium texture, saturated water content or low-carbon content. Both CO2 and N2O emissions were 43%-56% higher from soils with neutral pH. We conclude that microplastics contamination can cause raised GHGs emissions, posing a risk of exacerbating climate-change. We show clear links between GHGs emissions, microplastics properties, soil characteristics and soil microbe functional gene expression. Further research is needed regarding underlying mechanisms and processes.
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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, 650201, Yunnan, China; Honghe Centre for Mountain Futures, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Science, Honghe, 654400, Yunnan, China.
| | - Jianchu Xu
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201, Yunnan, China; Honghe Centre for Mountain Futures, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Science, Honghe, 654400, Yunnan, China; East and Central Asia Regional Office, World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF), Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Muhammad Saleem Arif
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Government College University Faisalabad, Allama Iqbal Road, Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan
| | - Awais Shakoor
- Soils West, Centre for Sustainable Farming Systems, Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6105, Australia; Teagasc, Environment, Soils and Land Use Department, Johnstown Castle, Co, Wexford, Y35 Y521, Ireland; Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, 2751, Australia
| | - Fiona R Worthy
- CAS Key Laboratory for Plant Diversity and Biogeography of East Asia, 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, 650201, Yunnan, China; Honghe Centre for Mountain Futures, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Science, Honghe, 654400, Yunnan, China
| | - Sehroon Khan
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Science and Technology Bannu, Bannu Township, 28100, Bannu, Khyber Pakhtunhuwa, Pakistan
| | - Dengpan Bu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China; Joint Laboratory on Integrated Crop-Tree-Livestock Systems, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR), And World Agroforestry Center (ICRAF), Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Sadia Nader
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Science and Technology Bannu, Bannu Township, 28100, Bannu, Khyber Pakhtunhuwa, Pakistan
| | - Sailesh Ranjitkar
- N. Gene Solution of Natural Innovation, Kathmandu, Nepal; School of Development Studies, Lumbini Buddhist University, Devdaha, Nepal; MICD, Faculty of Humanities and Social Science, Mid-West University, Lalitpur, Nepal
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18
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Feng Z, Zhu N, Wu H, Li M, Chen J, Yuan X, Li J, Wang Y. Microplastic coupled with soil dissolved organic matter mediated changes in the soil chemical and microbial characteristics. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 359:142361. [PMID: 38761827 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142361] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
The abundance of microplastics (MPs) in soil environments has attracted significant attentions, due to their impact on soil physico-chemical properties. However, limited information is available on the influences of MPs on soil carbon composition and microbial utilization characteristics. Therefore, a two-month incubation experiment was conducted to add polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs) with different levels (1%, 10%) and sizes (150-300 μm and 75-150 μm) into different soils. After that, soil chemical properties including the dissolved organic carbon (DOC), spectral characteristics of dissolved organic matter (DOM) and soil microbial characteristics were analyzed. Results revealed that PE-MPs addition caused significant differences in soil chemical properties between farmland and woodland soils, particularly in soil pH, DOM composition, and soil phosphatase activity. Woodland soil always exhibited higher levels of DOC content, microbial diversity, and soil carbon source utilization compared to farmland soil, leading to increased humification in the DOM of woodland soil. PE-MPs with a larger particle size significantly increased both the soil DOC content and enzyme activity. Addition of PE-MPs altered the soil DOM composition, and the fluorescence parameters like the biological index (BIX) and humification degree. Moreover, the carbon source utilization intensity of microorganisms on PE MPs-contaminated soils is higher in woodland soils. Various analyses confirmed that compared to other soil properties, characteristics of soil DOM had a more significant impact on soil microbial community composition. Thus, PE-MPs in conjunction with soil DOM spectral characteristics regulated soil microbial diversity, which is crucial for understanding soil carbon sequestration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwang Feng
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Ningyuan Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Hanzhou Wu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Ming Li
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Soil Environmental Management and Pollution Control, Nanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment of China, Nanjing, 210042, China
| | - Jian Chen
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Xuyin Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Jizhou Li
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Yimin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China.
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19
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Chen H, Gao B, Guo Y, Yu Q, Hu M, Zhang X. Adding carbon sources to the substrates enhances Cr and Ni removal and mitigates greenhouse gas emissions in constructed wetlands. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 252:118940. [PMID: 38626871 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118940] [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: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Constructed wetlands for wastewater treatment pose challenges related to long-term operational efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions on a global scale. This study investigated the impact of adding peat, humic acid, and biochar into the substrates of constructed wetlands and focused on Cr, and Ni removal, greenhouse gas emissions, and microbial communities in constructed wetlands. Biochar addition treatment achieved the highest removal efficiencies for total Cr (99.96%), Cr (VI) (100%), and total Ni (91.04%). Humic acid and biochar addition both significantly increased the heavy metal content in wetland plant Leersia hexandra and substrates of constructed wetlands. Further analysis of microbial community proportions by high-throughput sequencing revealed that biochar and humic acid treatments enhanced Cr and Ni removal efficiency by increasing the abundance of Bacteroidetes, Geobacter and Ascomycota. Humic acid addition treatment reduced CO2 emissions by decreasing the abundance of Bacteroidetes and increasing that of Basidiomycota. Peat treatment decreased CH4 emissions by reducing the abundance of the Bacteroidetes. Biochar treatment increased the abundance of the Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria as well as Basidiomycota, resulting in reduced N2O emissions. Biochar and humic acid treatments efficiently removed heavy metals from wastewater and mitigated greenhouse gas emissions in constructed wetlands by modifying the microbial communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongxu Chen
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control Theory and Technology, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Water Pollution Control and Water Safety in Karst Area, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China
| | - Bo Gao
- College of Tourism & Landscape Architecture, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China; College of Plant and Ecological Engineering, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China
| | - Yuehong Guo
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control Theory and Technology, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Water Pollution Control and Water Safety in Karst Area, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China
| | - Qiankui Yu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control Theory and Technology, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Water Pollution Control and Water Safety in Karst Area, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China
| | - Maosheng Hu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control Theory and Technology, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Water Pollution Control and Water Safety in Karst Area, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China
| | - Xingfeng Zhang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control Theory and Technology, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Water Pollution Control and Water Safety in Karst Area, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China.
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20
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Li Y, Hou F, Sun L, Lan J, Han Z, Li T, Wang Y, Zhao Z. Ecological effect of microplastics on soil microbe-driven carbon circulation and greenhouse gas emission: A review. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 364:121429. [PMID: 38870791 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.121429] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Soil organic carbon (SOC) pool, the largest part of terrestrial ecosystem, controls global terrestrial carbon balance and consequently presented carbon cycle-climate feedback in climate projections. Microplastics, (MPs, <5 mm) as common pollutants in soil ecosystems, have an obvious impact on soil-borne carbon circulation by affecting soil microbial processes, which play a central role in regulating SOC conversion. In this review, we initially presented the sources, properties and ecological risks of MPs in soil ecosystem, and then the differentiated effects of MPs on the component of SOC, including dissolved organic carbon, soil microbial biomass carbon and easily oxidized organic carbon varying with the types and concentrations of MPs, the soil types, etc. As research turns into a broader perspective, greenhouse gas emissions dominated by the mineralization of SOC coming into view since it can be significantly affected by MPs and is closely associated with soil microbial respiration. The pathways of MPs impacting soil microbes-driven carbon conversion include changing microbial community structure and composition, the functional enzyme's activity and the abundance and expression of functional genes. However, numerous uncertainties still exist regarding the microbial mechanisms in the deeper biochemical process. More comprehensive studies are necessary to explore the affected footprint and provide guidance for finding the evaluation criterion of MPs affecting climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaru Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Fangwei Hou
- College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Lulu Sun
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Jing Lan
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Zhanghua Han
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Optics and Photonic Devices, Center of Light Manipulation and Applications, School of Physics and Electronics, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250358, China
| | - Tongtong Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Yiming Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Zongshan Zhao
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China.
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21
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Seo Y, Zhou Z, Lai Y, Chen G, Pembleton K, Wang S, He JZ, Song P. Micro- and nanoplastics in agricultural soils: Assessing impacts and navigating mitigation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 931:172951. [PMID: 38703838 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Micro-/nanoplastic contamination in agricultural soils raises concerns on agroecosystems and poses potential health risks. Some of agricultural soils have received significant amounts of micro-/nanoplastics (MNPs) through plastic mulch film and biosolid applications. However, a comprehensive understanding of the MNP impacts on soils and plants remains elusive. The interaction between soil particles and MNPs is an extremely complex issue due to the different properties and heterogeneity of soils and the diverse characteristics of MNPs. Moreover, MNPs are a class of relatively new anthropogenic pollutants that may negatively affect plants and food. Herein, we presented a comprehensive review of the impacts of MNPs on the properties of soil and the growth of plants. We also discussed different strategies for mitigating or eliminating MNP contamination. Moreover, perspectives for future research on MNP contamination in the agricultural soils are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoonjung Seo
- School of Agriculture and Environmental Science, University of Southern Queensland, Springfield, Australia
| | - Zhezhe Zhou
- School of Agriculture and Environmental Science, University of Southern Queensland, Springfield, Australia; Centre for Future Materials, University of Southern Queensland, Springfield, Australia
| | - Yunru Lai
- Centre for Sustainable Agricultural Systems, University of Southern Queensland, Springfield, Australia.
| | - Guangnan Chen
- School of Agriculture and Environmental Science, University of Southern Queensland, Springfield, Australia.
| | - Keith Pembleton
- School of Agriculture and Environmental Science, University of Southern Queensland, Springfield, Australia
| | - Shaobin Wang
- School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Ji-Zheng He
- School of Agriculture, Food and Ecosystem Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Pingan Song
- School of Agriculture and Environmental Science, University of Southern Queensland, Springfield, Australia; Centre for Future Materials, University of Southern Queensland, Springfield, Australia.
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22
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Yan Z, Lin S, Hu R, Cheng H, Xiang R, Xu H, Zhao J. Effects of biodegradable microplastics and straw addition on soil greenhouse gas emissions. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 356:124315. [PMID: 38848959 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Large pieces of plastic are transformed into microplastic particles through weathering, abrasion, and ultraviolet radiation, significantly impacting the soil ecosystem. However, studies on biodegradable microplastics replacing traditional microplastics as agricultural mulching films to drive the biogeochemical processes influenced by GHG are still in their initial stages, with limited relevant reports available. This study sought to investigate the effects of microplastic and straw addition on CO2 and N2O emissions in different soils. Herein, yellow-brown soil (S1) and fluvo-aquic soil (S2) were utilized, each treated with three different concentrations of PLA (polylactic acid) microplastics (0.25%, 2%, and 7% w/w) at 25 °C for 35 days, with and without straw addition. The results showed that straw (1% w/w) significantly increased soil CO2 by 4.1-fold and 3.2-fold, respectively, and N2O by 1.8-fold and 1.8-fold, respectively, in cumulative emissions in S1 and S2 compared with the control. PLA microplastics significantly increased CO2 emissions by 71.5% and 99.0% and decreased N2O emissions by 30.1% and 24.7% at a high concentration (7% w/w, PLA3) in S1 and S2 compared with the control, respectively. The same trend was observed with the addition of straw and microplastics together. Structural equation modeling and redundancy analysis confirmed that soil physiochemical parameters, enzyme and microbial activities are key factors regulating CO2 and N2O emissions. The addition of microplastics is equivalent to the addition of carbon sources, which can significantly affect DOC, MBC, SOC and the abundance of carbon-associated bacteria (CbbL), thereby increasing soil CO2 emissions. The addition of microplastics alone inhibited the activity of nitrogen cycling enzymes (urease activity), increasing the abundance of denitrifying microbes. However, adding a high amount of microplastics and straw together released plastic additives, inhibiting microbial abundance and reducing the nitrogen cycle. These effects decreased NH4+-N and increased NO3--N, resulting in decreased N2O emissions. This study indicates that biodegradable microplastics could reduce soil plastic residue pollution through degradation. However, their use could also increase CO2 emissions and decrease N2O emissions. Consequently, this research lays the groundwork for further investigation into the implications of utilizing biodegradable microplastics as agricultural mulch, particularly concerning soil geochemistry and GHG emissions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziwei Yan
- Key Laboratory of Arable Land Conservation (Middle and Lower Reaches of Yangtze River), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Resources and Environment, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430070, China
| | - Shan Lin
- Key Laboratory of Arable Land Conservation (Middle and Lower Reaches of Yangtze River), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Resources and Environment, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430070, China.
| | - Ronggui Hu
- Key Laboratory of Arable Land Conservation (Middle and Lower Reaches of Yangtze River), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Resources and Environment, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430070, China
| | - Hongguang Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550002, China
| | - Rongbiao Xiang
- Key Laboratory of Arable Land Conservation (Middle and Lower Reaches of Yangtze River), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Resources and Environment, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430070, China
| | - Han Xu
- Key Laboratory of Arable Land Conservation (Middle and Lower Reaches of Yangtze River), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Resources and Environment, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430070, China
| | - Jinsong Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Arable Land Conservation (Middle and Lower Reaches of Yangtze River), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Resources and Environment, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430070, China
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23
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Song T, Liu J, Han S, Li Y, Xu T, Xi J, Hou L, Lin Y. Effect of conventional and biodegradable microplastics on the soil-soybean system: A perspective on rhizosphere microbial community and soil element cycling. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 190:108781. [PMID: 38880060 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
As an exogenous carbon input, microplastics (MPs), especially biodegradable MPs, may significantly disrupt soil microbial communities and soil element cycling (CNPS cycling), but few studies have focused on this. Here, we focused on assessing the effects of conventional low-density polyethylene (LDPE), biodegradable polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), and polylactic acid (PLA) MPs on rhizosphere microbial communities and CNPS cycling in a soil-soybean system. The results showed that PBAT-MPs and PLA-MPs were more detrimental to soybean growth than LDPE-MPs, resulting in a reduction in shoot nitrogen (14.05% and 11.84%) and shoot biomass (33.80% and 28.09%) at the podding stage. In addition, dissolved organic carbon (DOC) increased by 20.91% and 66.59%, while nitrate nitrogen (NO3--N) significantly decreased by 56.91% and 69.65% in soils treated with PBAT-MPs and PLA-MPs, respectively. PBAT-MPs and PLA-MPs mainly enhanced copiotrophic bacteria (Proteobacteria) and suppressed oligotrophic bacteria (Verrucomicrobiota, Gemmatimonadota, etc.), increasing the abundance of CNPS cycling-related functional genes. LDPE-MPs tended to enrich oligotrophic bacteria (Verrucomicrobiota, etc.) and decrease the abundance of CNPS cycling-related functional genes. Correlation analysis revealed that MPs with different degradation properties selectively affected the composition and function of the bacterial community, resulting in changes in the availability of soil nutrients (especially NO3--N). Redundancy analysis further indicated that NO3--N was the primary constraining factor for soybean growth. This study provides a new perspective for revealing the underlying ecological effects of MPs on soil-plant systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianjiao Song
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Jiaxi Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Siqi Han
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Yan Li
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Tengqi Xu
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Jiao Xi
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Lijun Hou
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec H9X 3V9, Canada
| | - Yanbing Lin
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.
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24
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Aralappanavar VK, Mukhopadhyay R, Yu Y, Liu J, Bhatnagar A, Praveena SM, Li Y, Paller M, Adyel TM, Rinklebe J, Bolan NS, Sarkar B. Effects of microplastics on soil microorganisms and microbial functions in nutrients and carbon cycling - A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 924:171435. [PMID: 38438042 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171435] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
The harmful effects of microplastics (MPs) pollution in the soil ecosystem have drawn global attention in recent years. This paper critically reviews the effects of MPs on soil microbial diversity and functions in relation to nutrients and carbon cycling. Reports suggested that both plastisphere (MP-microbe consortium) and MP-contaminated soils had distinct and lower microbial diversity than that of non-contaminated soils. Alteration in soil physicochemical properties and microbial interactions within the plastisphere facilitated the enrichment of plastic-degrading microorganisms, including those involved in carbon (C) and nutrient cycling. MPs conferred a significant increase in the relative abundance of soil nitrogen (N)-fixing and phosphorus (P)-solubilizing bacteria, while decreased the abundance of soil nitrifiers and ammonia oxidisers. Depending on soil types, MPs increased bioavailable N and P contents and nitrous oxide emission in some instances. Furthermore, MPs regulated soil microbial functional activities owing to the combined toxicity of organic and inorganic contaminants derived from MPs and contaminants frequently encountered in the soil environment. However, a thorough understanding of the interactions among soil microorganisms, MPs and other contaminants still needs to develop. Since currently available reports are mostly based on short-term laboratory experiments, field investigations are needed to assess the long-term impact of MPs (at environmentally relevant concentration) on soil microorganisms and their functions under different soil types and agro-climatic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Raj Mukhopadhyay
- Department of Chemistry, Mellon College of Science, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh 15213, United States
| | - Yongxiang Yu
- Research Center for Environmental Ecology and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Green Chemical Engineering Process of Ministry of Education, School of Environmental Ecology and Biological Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430205, China
| | - Jingnan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Water and Sediment Sciences of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Amit Bhatnagar
- Department of Separation Science, LUT School of Engineering Science, LUT University, Sammonkatu 12, FI-50130 Mikkeli, Finland
| | - Sarva Mangala Praveena
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Yang Li
- Key Laboratory of Water and Sediment Sciences of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Mike Paller
- Aquatic Biology Consultants, Inc., 35 Bungalow Ct., Aiken, SC 29803, USA
| | - Tanveer M Adyel
- STEM, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes, SA 5095, Australia
| | - Jörg Rinklebe
- University of Wuppertal, School of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Institute of Foundation Engineering, Water- and Waste-Management, Laboratory of Soil- and Groundwater-Management, Pauluskirchstraße 7, 42285 Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Nanthi S Bolan
- UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6001, Australia; The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6001, Australia
| | - Binoy Sarkar
- Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes, SA 5095, Australia.
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25
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Ren S, Xia Y, Jin X, Sun D, Luo D, Wei W, Yang Q, Ding J, Lv M, Chen L. Influence of microplastics on the availability of antibiotics in soils. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 924:171514. [PMID: 38458440 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171514] [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: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and antibiotics, as two major types of emerging pollutants, inevitably coexist in the soil environment due to agricultural film residue, sewage irrigation and sludge application. However, the impact of MPs on antibiotic availability in soils with varying characteristics has not been extensively studied. Therefore, in this study, an interference experiment was conducted using three types of MPs (polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polypropylene (PP)) in red soil, paddy soil and cinnamon soil. The available antibiotics in soils were evaluated using diffusive gradients in thin-films (DGT). Results showed that MPs had a significant impact on the amount of antibiotics adsorbed on soil solid (Cs) by providing additional binding sites or altering soil characteristics (e.g., pH and dissolved organic carbon). The most significant effects on Cs were observed in cinnamon soil, and the Cs values were dependent on concentration of MPs. The available antibiotics, as measured by DGT significantly decreased after the addition of MPs. This decrease was influenced by the soil characteristics. However, the concentration of antibiotics in soil solutions (Cd) was only slightly impacted by MPs. Therefore, the influence of MPs on the migration of antibiotics was reflected by their impact on the soil/water partition coefficient (Kd), while the resupply ability (R) from the soil solid phase was less influential. Moreover, the dosage of MPs had a significant effect on the availability of antibiotics in CS by promoting the adsorption of antibiotics on the solid phase, while in RS and PS, the soil properties played a dominate role in the changes in antibiotic availability after MP addition. These results indicate that the impact of MPs on available antibiotics mainly depends on soil properties. In addition, DGT measurement is more sensitive than soil solution to investigate the effects of coexisting pollutants on the behavior of antibiotics in soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suyu Ren
- School of Environmental and Material Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Yuxiang Xia
- School of Environmental and Material Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Xiaojie Jin
- Shandong Marine Resource and Environment Research Institute, Yantai 264006, China
| | - Dan Sun
- School of Environmental and Material Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Dan Luo
- School of Environmental and Material Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Wendi Wei
- School of Environmental and Material Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Qixia Yang
- School of Environmental and Material Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Jing Ding
- School of Environmental and Material Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Min Lv
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai 264003, China.
| | - Lingxin Chen
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai 264003, China.
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Palansooriya KN, Zhou Y, An Z, Cai Y, Chang SX. Microplastics affect the ecological stoichiometry of plant, soil and microbes in a greenhouse vegetable system. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 924:171602. [PMID: 38461987 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171602] [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: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution is a growing global issue due to its potential threat to ecosystem and human health. Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) MP is the most common type of plastics polluting agricultural soils, negatively affecting soil-microbial-plant systems. However, the effects of LDPE MPs on the carbon (C): nitrogen (N): phosphorus (P) of soil-microbial-plant systems have not been well elucidated. Thus, we conducted a pot experiment with varying LDPE MP concentrations (w/w) (control without MPs; 0.2 % MPs (PE1); 5 % MPs (PE2); and 10 % MPs (PE3)) to study their effects on soil-microbial-plant C-N-P stoichiometry. Soil C:N ratio increased 2.3 and 3.4 times in PE2 and PE3, respectively. Soil C:P ratio increased 2.2 and 3.6 times in PE2 and PE3, respectively. Soil microbial C:N ratios decreased by 46.2 % in PE1, while C:P ratios decreased by 59.2, 38.6, and 67.9 % in PE1, PE2, and PE3, respectively. Soil microbial N:P ratio decreased in PE1 (17.2) and PE3 (59.1 %). MPs increased shoot C content and C:N ratios, particularly at the 5 % MP addition rate. MP addition altered dissolved organic C, N, and P concentrations, depending on the MP addition rate. Microbial community responses to MP exposure were complex, leading to variable effects on different microbial groups at different MP addition rates. Structural equation modeling showed that MP addition had a direct positive effect (β = 0.96) on soil C-N-P stoichiometry and a direct negative effect (β = -1.34) on microbial C-N-P stoichiometry. These findings demonstrate the complex interactions between MPs, soil microorganisms, and nutrient dynamics, highlighting the need for further research to better understand the ecological implications of MP pollution in terrestrial ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kumuduni Niroshika Palansooriya
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, College of Environment and Resources, College of Carbon Neutrality, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, China; Department of Renewable Resources, University of Alberta, Edmonton T6G 2E3, Canada
| | - Ying Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, College of Environment and Resources, College of Carbon Neutrality, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, China
| | - Zhengfeng An
- Department of Renewable Resources, University of Alberta, Edmonton T6G 2E3, Canada
| | - Yanjiang Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, College of Environment and Resources, College of Carbon Neutrality, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, China.
| | - Scott X Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, College of Environment and Resources, College of Carbon Neutrality, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, China; Department of Renewable Resources, University of Alberta, Edmonton T6G 2E3, Canada.
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Lin X, Lin S, Peng L, Chen M, Cheng X, Xie S, Bao R, Su Y, Mehmood T. Effects of polypropylene microplastics on carbon dioxide dynamics in intertidal mangrove sediments. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 346:123682. [PMID: 38428788 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123682] [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: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) in soil can influence CO2 dynamics by altering organic carbon (OC) and microbial composition. Nevertheless, the fluctuation of CO2 response attributed to MPs in mangrove sediments is unclear. This study explores the impact of micro-sized polypropylene (mPP) particles on the carbon dynamics of intertidal mangrove sediments. In the high-tide level sediment, after 28 days, the cumulative CO2 levels for varying mPP dosages were as follows: 496.86 ± 2.07, 430.38 ± 3.84 and 447.09 ± 1.72 mg kg-1 for 0.1%, 1% and 10% (w/w) mPP, respectively. The CO2 emissions were found to be increased with a 0.1% (w/w) mPP level and decreased with 1% and 10% (w/w) mPP at high-tide level sediment, suggesting a tide level-specific dose dependence of the CO2 emission pattern in mangrove sediments. Overall, results indicated that the presence of mPP in mangrove sediments would potentially affect intertidal total CO2 storage under given experimental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xubing Lin
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Center for Eco-Environment Restoration Engineering of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China; School of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province, 570228, China
| | - Shuying Lin
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Center for Eco-Environment Restoration Engineering of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China; School of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province, 570228, China
| | - Licheng Peng
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Center for Eco-Environment Restoration Engineering of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China; School of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province, 570228, China.
| | - Miao Chen
- Hainan Key Laboratory of Tropical Eco-Circular Agriculture, Environment and Plant Protection Institute, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Haikou, 571101, China
| | - Xing Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Center for Eco-Environment Restoration Engineering of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China; School of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province, 570228, China
| | - Shiyu Xie
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Center for Eco-Environment Restoration Engineering of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China; School of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province, 570228, China
| | - Ruiqi Bao
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Center for Eco-Environment Restoration Engineering of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China; School of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province, 570228, China
| | - Yuanyuan Su
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Center for Eco-Environment Restoration Engineering of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China; School of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province, 570228, China
| | - Tariq Mehmood
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Center for Eco-Environment Restoration Engineering of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China; School of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province, 570228, China
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Alhusban Z. Microplastic infiltration into mobile sediments. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 919:170847. [PMID: 38354816 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
This study investigates the dynamics of microplastic infiltration into non-stationary sandy sediments, a pressing environmental concern due to the rising prevalence of microplastics in aquatic ecosystems. An annular flume was used to simulate riverine bedform motion, examining the suspension and infiltration of denser-than-water microplastic particles, including polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyamide (PA), and polylactide (PLA). The experiments focused on various particle sizes (ranging from 0.2 to 5 mm in diameter) and bedform migration speeds, known as celerities. The findings indicate that particle size is a significant factor influencing the depth of infiltration and distribution within sediment layers, whereas the impact of bedform celerities and particle densities appears less significant. This research provides novel insights into the behavior of microplastics in dynamic sedimentary environments, highlighting the intricate interaction between microplastic characteristics and sedimentary processes. The results contribute to an enhanced understanding of microplastic distribution and accumulation in riverine systems, offering crucial data for developing predictive models and formulating potential remediation strategies for microplastic pollution.
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Khan Z, Shah T, Haider G, Adnan F, Sheikh Z, El-Sheikh MA, Bhatti MF, Ahmad P. Mycorrhizosphere bacteria inhibit greenhouse gas emissions from microplastics contaminated soil by regulating soil enzyme activities and microbial community structure. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 356:120673. [PMID: 38508003 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120673] [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: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) accumulation in terrestrial ecosystems can affect greenhouse gases (GHGs) production by altering microbial and soil structure. Presently, research on the MPs effect on plants is not consistent, and underlying molecular mechanisms associated with GHGs are yet unknown. For the first time, we conducted a microcosm study to explore the impact of MPs addition (Raw vs. aged) and Trichoderma longibrachiatum and Bacillus subtilis inoculation (Sole vs. combination) on GHGs emission, soil community structure, physiochemical properties, and enzyme activities. Our results indicated that the addition of aged MPs considerably enhanced the GHGs emissions (N2O (+16%) and CO2 (+21%), respectively), C and N cycling gene expression, microbial biomass carbon, and soil physiochemical properties than raw MPs. However, the soil microbial community structure and enzyme activities were enhanced in raw MPs added treatments, irrespective of the MPs type added to soil. However, microbial inoculation significantly reduced GHGs emission by altering the expression of C and N cycling genes in both types of MPs added treatments. The soil microbial community structure, enzymes activities, physiochemical properties and microbial biomass carbon were enhanced in the presence of microbial inoculation in both type of MPs. Among sole and combined inoculation of Trichoderma and Bacillus subtilis, the co-applied Trichoderma and Bacillus subtilis considerably reduced the GHGs emission (N2O (-64%) and CO2 (-61%), respectively) by altering the expression of C and N cycling genes regardless of MPs type used. The combined inoculation also enhanced soil enzyme activities, microbial community structure, physiochemical properties and microbial biomass carbon in both types of MPs treatment. Our findings provide evidence that polyethylene MPs likely pose a high risk of GHGs emission while combined application of Trichoderma and Bacillus subtilis significantly reduced GHGs emission by altering C and N cycling gene expression, soil microbial community structure, and enzyme activities under MPs pollution in a terrestrial ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeeshan Khan
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Tariq Shah
- Plant Science Research Unit United States Department for Agriculture -Agricultural Research Service, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Ghulam Haider
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Fazal Adnan
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Zeshan Sheikh
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (IESE), School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (SCEE), National University of Science and Technology (NUST), Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
| | - Mohamed A El-Sheikh
- Botany and Microbiology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Faraz Bhatti
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan.
| | - Parvaiz Ahmad
- Department of Botany, GDC Pulwama-192301, Jammu and Kashmir, India
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Zhang S, Shen C, Zhang F, Wei K, Shan S, Zhao Y, Man YB, Wong MH, Zhang J. Microplastics removal mechanisms in constructed wetlands and their impacts on nutrient (nitrogen, phosphorus and carbon) removal: A critical review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 918:170654. [PMID: 38331284 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170654] [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: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are now prevalent in aquatic ecosystems, prompting the use of constructed wetlands (CWs) for remediation. However, the interaction between MPs and CWs, including removal efficiency, mechanisms, and impacts, remains a subject requiring significant investigation. This review investigates the removal of MPs in CWs and assesses their impact on the removal of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus. The analysis identifies crucial factors influencing the removal of MPs, with substrate particle size and CWs structure playing key roles. The review highlights substrate retention as the primary mechanism for MP removal. MPs hinder plant nitrogen uptake, microbial growth, community composition, and nitrogen-related enzymes, reducing nitrogen removal in CWs. For phosphorus and carbon removal, adverse effects of MPs on phosphorus elimination are observed, while their impact on carbon removal is minimal. Further research is needed to understand their influence fully. In summary, CWs are a promising option for treating MPs-contaminated wastewater, but the intricate relationship between MPs and CWs necessitates ongoing research to comprehend their dynamics and potential consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaochen Zhang
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Recycling and Eco-Treatment of Waste Biomass, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, PR China
| | - Cheng Shen
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Recycling and Eco-Treatment of Waste Biomass, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, PR China.
| | - Fuhao Zhang
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Recycling and Eco-Treatment of Waste Biomass, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, PR China
| | - Kejun Wei
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Recycling and Eco-Treatment of Waste Biomass, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, PR China
| | - Shengdao Shan
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Recycling and Eco-Treatment of Waste Biomass, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, PR China
| | - Yaqian Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Eco-Hydraulics in Northwest Arid Region, Xi'an University of Technology, Xi'an 710048, PR China
| | - Yu Bon Man
- Consortium on Health, Environment, Education and Research (CHEER), Department of Science and Environmental Studies, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Ming Hung Wong
- Consortium on Health, Environment, Education and Research (CHEER), Department of Science and Environmental Studies, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Recycling and Eco-Treatment of Waste Biomass, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, PR China.
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Wang W, Zhang Z, Gao J, Wu H. The impacts of microplastics on the cycling of carbon and nitrogen in terrestrial soil ecosystems: Progress and prospects. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 915:169977. [PMID: 38215847 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.169977] [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: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
As contaminants of emerging concern, microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitously present in almost all environmental compartments of the earth, with terrestrial soil ecosystems as the major sink for these contaminants. The accumulation of MPs in the soil can trigger a wide range of effects on soil physical, chemical, and microbial properties, which may in turn cause alterations in the biogeochemical processes of some key elements, such as carbon and nitrogen. Until recently, the effects of MPs on the cycling of carbon and nitrogen in terrestrial soil ecosystems have yet to be fully understood, which necessitates a review to summarize the current research progress and propose suggestions for future studies. The presence of MPs can affect the contents and forms of soil carbon and nitrogen nutrients (e.g., total and dissolved organic carbon, dissolved organic nitrogen, NH4+-N, and NO3--N) and the emissions of CH4, CO2, and N2O by altering soil microbial communities, functional gene expressions, and enzyme activities. Exposure to MPs can also affect plant growth and physiological processes, consequently influencing carbon fixation and nitrogen uptake. Specific effects of MPs on carbon and nitrogen cycling and the associated microbial parameters can vary considerably with MP properties (e.g., dose, polymer type, size, shape, and aging status) and soil types, while the mechanisms of interaction between MPs and soil microbes remain unclear. More comprehensive studies are needed to narrow the current knowledge gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenfeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China; Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Zhiyu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China; Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China; Jilin Normal University, 1301 Haifeng Street, Siping 136000, China
| | - Jie Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China; Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Haitao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China; Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China.
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Wang S, Zhou Q, Hu X, Tao Z. Polyethylene microplastic-induced microbial shifts affected greenhouse gas emissions during litter decomposition in coastal wetland sediments. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 251:121167. [PMID: 38301404 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121167] [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: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic contamination has become increasingly aggravated in coastal environments, further affecting biogeochemical processes involved with microbial community shifts. As a key biogeochemical process mainly driven by microbiota in coastal wetland sediments, litter decomposition contributes greatly to the global greenhouse gas (GHG) budget. However, under microplastic pollution, the relationship between microbial alterations and GHG emissions during litter decomposition in coastal wetlands remains largely unknown. Here, we explored the microbial mechanism by which polyethylene microplastic (PE-MP) influenced greenhouse gas (i.e., CH4, CO2 and N2O) emissions during litter decomposition in coastal sediments through a 75-day microcosm experiment. During litter decomposition, PE-MP exposure significantly decreased cumulative CH4 and CO2 emissions by 41.07% and 25.79%, respectively. However, there was no significant change in cumulative N2O emissions under PE-MP exposure. The bacterial, archaeal, and fungal communities in sediments exhibited varied responses to PE-MP exposure over time, as reflected by the altered structure and changed functional groups of the microbiota. The altered microbial functional groups ascribed to PE-MP exposure and sediment property changes might contribute to suppressing CH4 and CO2 emissions during litter decomposition. This study yielded valuable information regarding the effects of PE-MP on GHG emissions during litter decomposition in coastal wetland sediments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria (Ministry of Education)/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Carbon Neutrality Interdisciplinary Science Centre/College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Qixing Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria (Ministry of Education)/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Carbon Neutrality Interdisciplinary Science Centre/College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, China.
| | - Xiangang Hu
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria (Ministry of Education)/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Carbon Neutrality Interdisciplinary Science Centre/College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Zongxin Tao
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria (Ministry of Education)/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Carbon Neutrality Interdisciplinary Science Centre/College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, China
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Liu L, Sun Y, Du S, Li Y, Wang J. Nanoplastics promote the dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes and diversify their bacterial hosts in soil. ECO-ENVIRONMENT & HEALTH (ONLINE) 2024; 3:1-10. [PMID: 38187015 PMCID: PMC10767152 DOI: 10.1016/j.eehl.2023.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
The wide application of plastics has led to the ubiquitous presence of nanoplastics and microplastics in terrestrial environments. However, few studies have focused on the mechanism underlying the effects of plastic particles on soil microbiomes and resistomes, especially the differences between nanoplastics and microplastics. This study investigated the microbiome and resistome in soil exposed to polystyrene microplastics (mPS) or nanoplastics (nPS) through 16S rRNA and shotgun metagenomic sequencing. Distinct microbial communities were observed between mPS and nPS exposure groups, and nPS exposure significantly changed the bacterial composition even at the lowest amended rate (0.01%, w/w). The abundance of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in nPS exposure (1%) was 0.26 copies per cell, significantly higher than that in control (0.21 copies per cell) and mPS exposure groups (0.21 copies per cell). It was observed that nanoplastics, bacterial community, and mobile genetic elements (MGEs) directly affected the ARG abundance in nPS exposure groups, while in mPS exposure groups, only MGEs directly induced the change of ARGs. Streptomyces was the predominant host for multidrug in the control and mPS exposure, whereas the primary host was changed to Bacillus in nPS exposure. Additionally, exposure to nPS induced several bacterial hosts to exhibit possible multi-antibiotic resistance characteristics. Our results indicated that the effects of plastic particles on the soil microbial community were size-dependent, and nano-sized plastic particles exhibited more substantial impacts. Both microplastics and nanoplastics promoted ARG transfer and diversified their bacterial hosts. These findings bear implications for the regulation of plastic waste and ARGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijuan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, Interdisciplinary Research Academy (IRA), Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310015, China
| | - Yuanze Sun
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Shaoting Du
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, Interdisciplinary Research Academy (IRA), Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310015, China
| | - Yanming Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
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Shah JA, Ullah S, Chen D, Wu J. Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) contamination suppressed soil microbial biomass carbon and mitigated CO 2 emissions against the background of alfalfa from different soils. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 272:116073. [PMID: 38335580 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116073] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Plastic mulching and organic amendments are prevalent agricultural practices worldwide. Plastic mulching has long been suspected as a significant source of DEHP contamination in terrestrial ecosystems. However, effects of DEHP contamination on greenhouse gas emissions and microbial biomass carbon (MBC) remain unclear. Here, a microcosm experiment was set up to assess the impact of DEHP exposure on MBC and carbon dioxide (CO2) emission in two different soils (acidic and alkaline) with the inclusion of alfalfa straw. The treatment includes: (i) control with no amendment (T1); (ii) alfalfa straw addition (20 g kg-1) (T2); (iii) DEHP (10 mg kg-1) + alfalfa straw (T3); and (iv) DEHP (100 mg kg-1) + alfalfa straw (T4). Against the background of alfalfa inclusion, DEHP exposure led to a potential reduction in cumulative CO2 emissions by 16.35 % and 6.91 % in alkaline soil and 12.27 % and 13.65 % in acidic soil for T3 and T4, respectively. The addition of DEHP triggered CO2 emissions and manifested a detrimental negative priming effect in both soil types. In both soils, average CO2 emission fluxes were highest for the T2 treatment. The MBC fluctuated at around 80 mg kg-1 for the control group, alfalfa straw alone (T2) treatment considerably enhanced MBC contents, whereas DEHP contamination in T3 and T4 treatments suppressed the stimulatory effect of alfalfa on MBC in both alkaline and acidic soils. Furthermore, a positive relationship was observed between soil CO2 emissions and MBC in both soils. Overall, these findings highlight the toxic impact of DEHP on MBC and its role in mitigating CO2 emissions in diverse soils. DEHP exposure counters the CO2 emissions induced by alfalfa straw. In addition, the inhibitory effect of DEHP on CO2 fluxes in alkaline soil is less pronounced than in acidic soil. Therefore, further cutting-edge research is crucial since DEHP contamination poses serious ecological threats to agroecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jawad Ali Shah
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Transboundary Ecosecurity of Southwest China, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Plant Reproductive Adaptation and Evolutionary Ecology and Institute of Biodiversity, School of Ecology and Environmental Science, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China; Key Laboratory of Soil Ecology and Health in Universities of Yunnan Province, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China; Yunnan Key Laboratory of Carbon Neutrality and Green Low-Carbon Technologies, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Saif Ullah
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Transboundary Ecosecurity of Southwest China, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Plant Reproductive Adaptation and Evolutionary Ecology and Institute of Biodiversity, School of Ecology and Environmental Science, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China; Key Laboratory of Soil Ecology and Health in Universities of Yunnan Province, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Deyun Chen
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Transboundary Ecosecurity of Southwest China, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Plant Reproductive Adaptation and Evolutionary Ecology and Institute of Biodiversity, School of Ecology and Environmental Science, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China; Key Laboratory of Soil Ecology and Health in Universities of Yunnan Province, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Jianping Wu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Transboundary Ecosecurity of Southwest China, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Plant Reproductive Adaptation and Evolutionary Ecology and Institute of Biodiversity, School of Ecology and Environmental Science, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China; Key Laboratory of Soil Ecology and Health in Universities of Yunnan Province, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China; Yunnan Key Laboratory of Carbon Neutrality and Green Low-Carbon Technologies, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China.
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Hu L, Tan X, Lu L, Meng X, Li Y, Yao H. DNA-SIP delineates unique microbial communities in the rhizosphere of the hyperaccumulator Sedum alfredii which are beneficial to Cd phytoextraction. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 272:116016. [PMID: 38301580 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116016] [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: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Rhizo-microbe recruited by hyperaccumulating plants are crucial for the extraction of metals from contaminated soils. It is important, but difficult, to identify the specific rhizosphere microbes of hyperaccumulators shaped by root exudation. Continuous 13CO2 labeling, microbial DNA-based stable isotope probing (DNA-SIP), and high throughput sequencing were applied to identify those rhizosphere microorganisms using exudates from the Cd hyperaccumulator Sedum alfredii. In contrast to its non-hyperaccumulating ecotype (NAE), the hyperaccumulating ecotype (HAE) of S. alfredii strongly changed the rhizosphere environment and extracted a 5-fold higher concentration of Cd from contaminated soil. Although both HAE and NAE harbored Streptomyces, Massilia, Bacillus, and WPS-2 Uncultured Bacteria with relative abundance of more than 1% in the rhizosphere associated with plant growth and immunity, the HAE rhizosphere specifically recruited Rhodanobacter (2.66%), Nocardioides (1.16%), and Burkholderia (1.01%) through exudates to benefit the extraction of Cd from soil. Different from the bacterial network with weak cooperation in the NAE rhizosphere, a closed-loop bacterial network shaped by exudates was established in the HAE rhizosphere to synergistically resist Cd. This research reveals a specific rhizosphere bacterial community induced by exudates assisted in the extraction of Cd by S. alfredii and provides a new perspective for plant regulation of the rhizo-microbe community beneficial for optimizing phytoremediation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lanfang Hu
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315800, China; College of Resources and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Xingyan Tan
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315800, China
| | - Lingli Lu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecological Health, College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xiangtian Meng
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315800, China
| | - Yaying Li
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315800, China
| | - Huaiying Yao
- Research Center for Environmental Ecology and Engineering, School of Environmental Ecology and Biological Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430073, China.
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Palucha N, Fojt J, Holátko J, Hammerschmiedt T, Kintl A, Brtnický M, Řezáčová V, De Winterb K, Uitterhaegen E, Kučerík J. Does poly-3-hydroxybutyrate biodegradation affect the quality of soil organic matter? CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 352:141300. [PMID: 38286312 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
The search for eco-friendly substitutes for traditional plastics has led to the production of biodegradable bioplastics. However, concerns have been raised about the impact of bioplastic biodegradation on soil health. Despite these concerns, the potential negative consequences of bioplastics during various stages of biodegradation remain underexplored. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the impact of micro-bioplastics made of poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (P3HB) on the properties of three different soils. In our ten-month experiment, we investigated the impact of poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (P3HB) on Chernozem, Cambisol, and Phaeozem soils. Our study focused on changes in soil organic matter (SOM), microbial activity, and the level of soil carbon and nitrogen. The observed changes indicated an excessive level of biodegradation of SOM after the soils were enriched with micro-particles of P3HB, with concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 3%. The thermogravimetric analysis confirmed the presence of residual P3HB (particularly in the 3% treatment) and underscored the heightened biodegradation of SOM, especially in the more stable SOM fractions. This was notably evident in Phaeozem soils, where even the stable SOM pool was affected. Elemental analysis revealed changes in soil organic carbon content following P3HB degradation, although nitrogen levels remained constant. Enzymatic activity was found to vary with soil type and responded differently across P3HB concentration levels. Our findings confirmed that P3HB acts as a bioavailable carbon source. Its biodegradation stimulates the production of enzymes, which in turn affects various soil elements, indicating complex interactions within the soil ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natálie Palucha
- Brno University of Technology, Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Environmental Protection, Purkyňova 118, Brno, 612 00, Czech Republic; Bio Base Europe Pilot Plant VZW, Rodenhuizekaai 1, Desteldonk, Gent, 9042, Belgium
| | - Jakub Fojt
- Textile Testing Institute, Cejl 480/12, 602 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Holátko
- Department of Agrochemistry, Soil Science, Microbiology and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of AgriSciences, Mendel University in Brno, Zemědělská 1, Brno, 61300, Czech Republic; Agrovyzkum Rapotin, Ltd, Výzkumniků 267, 788 13, Rapotin, Czech Republic
| | - Tereza Hammerschmiedt
- Department of Agrochemistry, Soil Science, Microbiology and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of AgriSciences, Mendel University in Brno, Zemědělská 1, Brno, 61300, Czech Republic
| | - Antonin Kintl
- Department of Agrochemistry, Soil Science, Microbiology and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of AgriSciences, Mendel University in Brno, Zemědělská 1, Brno, 61300, Czech Republic; Agricultural Research, Ltd, Zahradní 400/1, 664 41, Troubsko, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Brtnický
- Brno University of Technology, Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Environmental Protection, Purkyňova 118, Brno, 612 00, Czech Republic; Department of Agrochemistry, Soil Science, Microbiology and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of AgriSciences, Mendel University in Brno, Zemědělská 1, Brno, 61300, Czech Republic
| | - Veronika Řezáčová
- Brno University of Technology, Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Environmental Protection, Purkyňova 118, Brno, 612 00, Czech Republic
| | - Karel De Winterb
- Bio Base Europe Pilot Plant VZW, Rodenhuizekaai 1, Desteldonk, Gent, 9042, Belgium
| | - Evelien Uitterhaegen
- Bio Base Europe Pilot Plant VZW, Rodenhuizekaai 1, Desteldonk, Gent, 9042, Belgium
| | - Jiří Kučerík
- Brno University of Technology, Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Environmental Protection, Purkyňova 118, Brno, 612 00, Czech Republic.
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Feng T, Wei Z, Agathokleous E, Zhang B. Effect of microplastics on soil greenhouse gas emissions in agroecosystems: Does it depend upon microplastic shape and soil type? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169278. [PMID: 38092197 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169278] [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: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics have emerged as a significant pollutant in terrestrial ecosystems, with their accumulation in agricultural fields influencing soil greenhouse gas emissions. Nevertheless, the specific impact of microplastics, particularly in relation to their varying shapes, and how this effect manifests across diverse soil types, remains largely unexplored. In this study, a 56-day incubation experiment was conducted to assess the influence of microplastic shapes (fibers, films, and spheres) on CO2 and N2O emissions in three types of soils (Chernozems, Luvisols, and Ferralsols), while also investigating potential associations with the compositional and functional characteristics of soil bacterial communities. When compared to the control group, the introduction of microplastic fibers resulted in an increase of 21.7 % in cumulative CO2 emissions and a 31.4 % rise in cumulative N2O emissions in Ferralsols. This increase was closely linked to the proliferation of the Actinobacteria and Bacilli classes and the orders of Catenulisporales, Bacillales, Streptomycetales, Micrococcales, and Burkholderiales within the bacterial communities of Ferralsols, alongside an observed elevation in N-acetyl-glucosaminidase enzyme activity. The inclusion of microplastic fibers did not result in significant alterations in greenhouse gas emissions within Chernozems and Luvisols. This is likely attributed to the inherent buffering capacity of these soils, which helps stabilize substrate and nutrient availability for microbial communities. These findings highlight that the response of greenhouse gas emissions to microplastic additions is contingent upon the shape of the microplastics and the specific soil types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianshu Feng
- Changwang School of Honors, Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing 210044, China
| | - Zhanbo Wei
- Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Evgenios Agathokleous
- School of Applied Meteorology, Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing 210044, China
| | - Bin Zhang
- School of Applied Meteorology, Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing 210044, China.
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Zhang H, Huang Y, Shen J, Xu F, Hou H, Xie C, Wang B, An S. Mechanism of polyethylene and biodegradable microplastic aging effects on soil organic carbon fractions in different land-use types. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:168961. [PMID: 38042203 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168961] [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: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are widely present in terrestrial ecosystems, but knowledge about the aging characteristics of MPs in different land-use types and their impact on soil organic carbon fractions is still limited. Polyethylene (PE) and biodegradable MPs (Poly propylene carbonate and Polybutylene adipate terephthalate synthetic material (PPC + PBAT, Bio)), at 0 %, 0.03 %, and 0.3 % (w/w) dosages, were added to grassland, farmland, and facility soils for eight-week incubation. The aging degree of MPs was explored by quantifying the carbonyl index (CI). Soil organic C fractions such as SOC, particulate organic carbon (POC), mineral-associated organic carbon (MAOC), and microbial-derived C were analyzed. MPs underwent rapid aging after incubation, and the CI value for 0.03 % PE-MPs increased from 0.05 to 0.27 (farmland) and 0.26 (facility) (p < 0.05). The aging degree of 0.03 % and 0.3 % Bio-MPs was most significant in grassland, with CI decreasing by 46.6 % and 69.0 %, respectively. The CI of MPs were negatively correlated with their dosage. The 0.03 % and 0.3 % PE-MPs decreased soil organic carbon (SOC) content by 7.4 % and 8.2 % in grassland, and 3.0 % and 6.0 % in the facility (p < 0.05). POC content of farmland and facility soil was negatively correlated with PE-MPs' CI (p < 0.05). The 0.03 % PE and Bio-MPs decreased fungal necromass C (FNC) by 0.40 and 0.05 g kg-1 in grassland and 0.48 and 0.21 g kg-1 in farmland. Besides, the dosage of MPs regulated FNC content through soil pH, nutrients, and extracellular enzyme activity, either directly or indirectly, ultimately affecting the soil C pool. Therefore, this study demonstrates that MPs strongly affect SOC dynamics by influencing soil microbial enzyme activity and fungal necromass.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haixin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and The Agri-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Green Agriculture in Northwestern China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yimei Huang
- Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and The Agri-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Green Agriculture in Northwestern China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Jikai Shen
- Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and The Agri-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Green Agriculture in Northwestern China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Fengjing Xu
- Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and The Agri-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Green Agriculture in Northwestern China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hongyang Hou
- Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and The Agri-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Green Agriculture in Northwestern China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Chunjiao Xie
- Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and The Agri-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Green Agriculture in Northwestern China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Baorong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Ministry of Water Resources, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shaoshan An
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China.
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39
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Xu G, Li Y, Lin X, Yu Y. Effects and mechanisms of polystyrene micro- and nano-plastics on the spread of antibiotic resistance genes from soil to lettuce. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169293. [PMID: 38104810 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169293] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Effects of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) on the spread of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in soil-plant systems are still unclear. To investigate the spread and mechanisms of ARGs from soil to lettuce, lettuce was exposed to soil spiked with two environmentally relevant concentrations of polystyrene MPs (100 μm) and NPs (100 nm). Results showed that microorganisms that carried ARGs in soil were increased after exposure to MPs/NPs, which led to an increase in ARGs in roots. NPs were absorbed by roots and can be transported to leaves. Analysis of transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics indicated that high concentration of NPs regulated the expression of related genes and proteins and improved the accumulation of flavonoids in the lettuce, therefore decreased the abundance of microorganisms that contained ARGs. Our work emphasizes the size and dose influences of MPs and NPs on the spread of ARGs from soil to plant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanghui Xu
- Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130102, China
| | - Yanjun Li
- Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130102, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xiaolong Lin
- Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130102, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yong Yu
- Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130102, China.
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40
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Yao N, Li W, Hu L, Fang N. Do mould inhibitors alter the microbial community structure and antibiotic resistance gene profiles on textiles? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 911:168808. [PMID: 38000736 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168808] [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: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Mould inhibitors are closely associated with human health and have been extensively applied to textiles to prevent mould and insect infestations. However, the impact of these mould inhibitors on the microbial community structure on textiles and antibiotic resistance gene (ARG) profiles remains largely unexplored. In this study, testing techniques, including high-throughput quantitative PCR and Illumina sequencing, were employed to analyse the effects of three types of mould inhibitors -para-dichlorobenzene (PDCB), naphthalene, and natural camphor balls-on the composition of microbial communities and ARG profiles. The microbial mechanisms underlying these effects were also investigated. The experiments revealed that PDCB reduced the diversity of bacterial communities on textiles, whereas naphthalene and natural camphor balls exerted relatively minor effects. In contrast with bacterial diversity, PDCB enhanced the diversity of fungal communities on textiles, but significantly reduced their abundance. Naphthalene had the least impact on fungal communities; however, it notably increased the relative abundance of Basidiomycota. All three types of mould inhibitors substantially altered ARG profiles. Potential mechanisms responsible for the alterations in ARG profiles include microbial community succession and horizontal gene transfer mediated by mobile genetic elements. PDCB prominently increased the abundance of ARGs, mainly attributable to the relative enrichment of potential hosts (including certain γ-Proteobacteria and Bacillales) for specific ARGs. Thus, this study has important implications for the selection of mould inhibitors, as well as the assessment of microbial safety in textiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ningyuan Yao
- College of Science, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia.
| | - Wei Li
- CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, China
| | - Lanfang Hu
- CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, China
| | - Nan Fang
- CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, China
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41
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Zhang Z, Wang W, Liu J, Wu H. Discrepant responses of bacterial community and enzyme activities to conventional and biodegradable microplastics in paddy soil. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 909:168513. [PMID: 37977392 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of microplastics in soil ecosystems has raised concerns about their potential effects on soil properties. As promising alternatives to conventional plastics, biodegradable plastics have been increasingly applied in agricultural activities, which may release microplastics into the soil due to incomplete degradation. Compared to conventional microplastics, biodegradable microplastics in soil may induce different impacts on soil microbial properties, which have yet to be well studied. Through a 41-day microcosm experiment, we evaluated the differential effects of conventional (polypropylene, PP) and biodegradable (polylactic acid, PLA) microplastics on the geochemical properties, enzyme activities, and microbial community structure in paddy soil. Adding PLA or PP microplastics into soil significantly increased pH values and altered the contents of carbon and nitrogen nutrients. Exposure to microplastics significantly increased the activity of fluorescein diacetate hydrolase, but had varying effects on the activities of urease, sucrase, and alkaline phosphatase depending on microplastic types and doses. The addition of microplastics also influenced the structure of soil bacterial community, with Proteobacteria, Actinobacteriota, and Acidobacteriota being the dominant phyla. Significant differences in the genera of Pseudarthrobacter, Acidothermus, Bacillus, Aquisphaera, and Massilia were observed between treatments. Results of structural equation modeling (SEM) demonstrated that changes in soil carbon and nitrogen nutrients and pH values positively affected the bacterial community, while soil bacterial community as a whole exerted a negative impact on enzyme activities. FAPRPTAX analysis showed that the addition of microplastics altered the relative abundances of functional genes related to the metabolism of cellulose decomposition and ureolysis in paddy soil. Findings of this study clearly suggest that microplastic impacts on soil geochemical and microbial properties should be an integral part of future risk assessment and that to evaluate microplastic impacts, both the concentration and polymer type must be taken into account.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China; Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China; Jilin Normal University, 1301 Haifeng Street, Siping 136000, China
| | - Wenfeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China; Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China.
| | - Jiping Liu
- Jilin Normal University, 1301 Haifeng Street, Siping 136000, China
| | - Haitao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China; Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China.
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Withana PA, Li J, Senadheera SS, Fan C, Wang Y, Ok YS. Machine learning prediction and interpretation of the impact of microplastics on soil properties. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 341:122833. [PMID: 37931672 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
The annual microplastic (MP) release into soils is 4-23 times higher than that into oceans, significantly impacting soil quality. However, the mechanisms underlying how MPs impact soil properties remain largely unknown. Soil-MP interactions are complex because of soil heterogeneity and varying MP properties. This lack of understanding was exacerbated by the diverse experimental conditions and soil types used in this study. Predicting changes in soil properties in the presence of MPs is challenging, laborious, and time-consuming. To address these issues, machine learning was applied to fit datasets from peer-reviewed publications to predict and interpret how MPs influence soil properties, including pH, dissolved organic carbon (DOC), total P, NO3--N, NH4+-N, and acid phosphatase enzyme activity (acid P). Among the developed models, the gradient boost regression (GBR) model showed the highest R2 (0.86-0.99) compared to the decision tree and random forest models. The GBR model interpretation showed that MP properties contributed more than 50% to altering the acid P and NO3--N concentrations in soils, whereas they had a negligible impact on total P and 10-20% impact on soil pH, DOC, and NH4+-N. Specifically, the size of MPs was the dominant factor influencing acid P (89.3%), pH (71.6%), and DOC (44.5%) in soils. NO3--N was mainly affected by the MP type (52.0%). The NH4+-N was mainly affected by the MP dose (46.8%). The quantitative insights into the impact of MPs on soil properties of this study could aid in understanding the roles of MPs in soil systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piumi Amasha Withana
- Korea Biochar Research Center, Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) Sustainable Waste Management Program & Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea; International ESG Association (IESGA), Seoul, 06621, Republic of Korea
| | - Jie Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Sachini Supunsala Senadheera
- Korea Biochar Research Center, Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) Sustainable Waste Management Program & Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea; International ESG Association (IESGA), Seoul, 06621, Republic of Korea
| | - Chuanfang Fan
- Korea Biochar Research Center, Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) Sustainable Waste Management Program & Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101408, China
| | - Yin Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Yong Sik Ok
- Korea Biochar Research Center, Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) Sustainable Waste Management Program & Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea; International ESG Association (IESGA), Seoul, 06621, Republic of Korea; Institute of Green Manufacturing Technology, College of Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
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43
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Owusu SM, Adomako MO, Qiao H. Organic amendment in climate change mitigation: Challenges in an era of micro- and nanoplastics. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 907:168035. [PMID: 37907110 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
As a global strategy for mitigating climate change, organic amendments play critical roles in restoring stocks in carbon (C) depleted soils, preserving existing stocks to prevent further soil organic carbon (SOC) loss, and enhancing C sequestration. However, recent emerging evidence of a significant proportion of micro- and nanoplastics (M/NPs) occurrence in most organic substrates (e.g., compost manure, farmyard manure, and sewage sludge) compromises its role in climate change mitigation. Given the predicted surge of soil M/NPs proliferation in the coming years, we argued whether organic amendment remains a reliable climate change mitigation strategy. Toxicity effects of M/NPs influx within the soil matrix disrupt plants and their associated key microbial taxa responsible for crucial biogeochemical processes and restructuring of SOC, leading to increasing emissions of potent greenhouse gases (GHGs, e.g., CO2, CH4, and N2O) that feedback to aggravate the rapidly changing climate. Here, we summarize evidence based on literature that the discovery of M/NPs in organic substrates compromises its role in the climate change mitigation strategy. We briefly discuss the overview of synthetic fertilizers and their impact on SOC and atmospheric emissions. We discuss the role of organic amends in climate change mitigation and the emergence of M/NPs in it. We discuss M/NPs-induced damages to SOC and subsequent emissions of GHGs. We briefly highlight management approaches to clean organic substrates of M/NPs to improve their use in agrosystems and provide recommendations for future research studies. We found that organic amendment plays pivotal role in modulating the biotic and abiotic drivers responsible for climate mitigation. However, M/NPs in organic amendments weaken the regulatory mechanisms of organic amendments in plant-soil systems. We conclude that organic amendments of soils are critical for restoring SOC and mitigating the rapidly changing climate; yet, the discovery of M/NPs in organic substrates put their usage in a dilemma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Mensah Owusu
- Schoo of Business, Jinggangshan University, Qingyuan District, Ji'an City 343009, Jiangxi, China.
| | - Michael Opoku Adomako
- Institute of Wetland Ecology & Clone Ecology/Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hu Qiao
- Schoo of Business, Jinggangshan University, Qingyuan District, Ji'an City 343009, Jiangxi, China
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Zhou J, Xu H, Xiang Y, Wu J. Effects of microplastics pollution on plant and soil phosphorus: A meta-analysis. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 461:132705. [PMID: 37813034 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132705] [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: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
The widespread use of microplastics leads to environmental pollution, which threatens ecosystem functions (i.e., nutrient cycling). Some studies have focused on the impacts of microplastics on phosphorus from plants and soils. However, inconsistent responses of plant and soil phosphorus to microplastics have been observed. This work synthesized the results of 781 paired observations from 73 publications to explore the overall effects of microplastics on plant and soil phosphorus and whether the impacts depended on microplastics properties and experimental variables. We found the overall negative effects of microplastics on plant phosphorus and soil available phosphorus. Additionally, microplastics significantly inhibited neutral phosphatase activity but increased soil phosphorus leaching. Furthermore, the impacts of microplastics on plant and soil phosphorus varied depending on microplastics types, sizes, concentrations, and experimental durations. Soil total phosphorus and available phosphorus exhibited stronger negative responses to biodegradable than conventional microplastics. Acid phosphatase was more sensitive to biodegradable than conventional microplastics. In addition, soil total phosphorus, available phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase were significantly correlated with microplastic concentrations and exposure time. Overall, our findings suggest that microplastics potentially threaten soil fertility and plant productivity. This work provides an important reference for predicting ecosystem functions in the context of microplastics pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Zhou
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Plant Reproductive Adaptation and Evolutionary Ecology and Institute of Biodiversity, School of Ecology and Environmental Science, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, Yunnan, PR China; Laboratory of Soil Ecology and Health in Universities of Yunnan Province, Key Laboratory of Southwest Cross-Board Ecosecurity, Ministry of Education, Kunming 650500, PR China
| | - Haibian Xu
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Plant Reproductive Adaptation and Evolutionary Ecology and Institute of Biodiversity, School of Ecology and Environmental Science, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, Yunnan, PR China; Laboratory of Soil Ecology and Health in Universities of Yunnan Province, Key Laboratory of Southwest Cross-Board Ecosecurity, Ministry of Education, Kunming 650500, PR China
| | - Yangzhou Xiang
- School of Geography and Resources, Guizhou Education University, Guiyang 550018, PR China.
| | - Jianping Wu
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Plant Reproductive Adaptation and Evolutionary Ecology and Institute of Biodiversity, School of Ecology and Environmental Science, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, Yunnan, PR China; Laboratory of Soil Ecology and Health in Universities of Yunnan Province, Key Laboratory of Southwest Cross-Board Ecosecurity, Ministry of Education, Kunming 650500, PR China.
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Bodor A, Feigl G, Kolossa B, Mészáros E, Laczi K, Kovács E, Perei K, Rákhely G. Soils in distress: The impacts and ecological risks of (micro)plastic pollution in the terrestrial environment. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 269:115807. [PMID: 38091673 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115807] [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: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Plastics have revolutionised human industries, thanks to their versatility and durability. However, their extensive use, coupled with inadequate waste disposal, has resulted in plastic becoming ubiquitous in every environmental compartment, posing potential risks to the economy, human health and the environment. Additionally, under natural conditions, plastic waste breaks down into microplastics (MPs<5 mm). The increasing quantity of MPs exerts a significant burden on the soil environment, particularly in agroecosystems, presenting a new stressor for soil-dwelling organisms. In this review, we delve into the effects of MP pollution on soil ecosystems, with a specific attention to (a) MP transport to soils, (b) potential changes of MPs under environmental conditions, (c) and their interaction with the physical, chemical and biological components of the soil. We aim to shed light on the alterations in the distribution, activity, physiology and growth of soil flora, fauna and microorganisms in response to MPs, offering an ecotoxicological perspective for environmental risk assessment of plastics. The effects of MPs are strongly influenced by their intrinsic traits, including polymer type, shape, size and abundance. By exploring the multifaceted interactions between MPs and the soil environment, we provide critical insights into the consequences of plastic contamination. Despite the growing body of research, there remain substantial knowledge gaps regarding the long-term impact of MPs on the soil. Our work underscores the importance of continued research efforts and the adoption of standardised approaches to address plastic pollution and ensure a sustainable future for our planet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Attila Bodor
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary; Institute of Biophysics, HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Gábor Feigl
- Department of Plant Biology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Bálint Kolossa
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Enikő Mészáros
- Department of Plant Biology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Krisztián Laczi
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Etelka Kovács
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Katalin Perei
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Gábor Rákhely
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary; Institute of Biophysics, HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
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Wu Q, Zhou W, Chen D, Tian J, Ao J. Biochar Mitigates the Negative Effects of Microplastics on Sugarcane Growth by Altering Soil Nutrients and Microbial Community Structure and Function. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:83. [PMID: 38202391 PMCID: PMC10781033 DOI: 10.3390/plants13010083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution in sugarcane areas of China is severe, and reducing the ecological risks is critical. Biochar has been widely used in soil remediation. This study aims to explore the effects and mechanisms of microplastics combined with or without biochar on sugarcane biomass, soil biochemical properties in red soil through a potted experiment. The results show that, compared with control (CK), treatments with microplastics alone reduced the dry biomass of sugarcane, soil pH, and nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) contents by an average of 8.8%, 2.1%, 1.1%, and 2.0%, respectively. Interestingly, microplastics combined with biochar could alleviate the negative effects of microplastic accumulation on sugarcane growth and soil quality. There were significant differences in the bacterial community alpha diversity indices and compositions among different treatments. Compared with CK, treatments with microplastics alone obviously decreased the observed operational taxonomic units (OTUs) and the Chao1 and Shannon indices of soil total bacteria (16S rRNA gene-based bacteria) while increasing them in phoD-harboring bacteria. Microplastics combined with biochar treatments significantly increased the abundance of Subgroup_10 for the 16S rRNA gene and treatments with microplastics alone significantly increased the relative abundance of Streptomyces for the phoD gene compared to CK. Moreover, compared with microplastics alone, the treatments with microplastics combined with biochar increased the relative abundance of Subgroup_10, Bacillus, Pseudomonas in soil total bacteria, and Amycolatopsis and Bradyrhizobium in phoD-harboring bacteria, most of which can inhibit harmful bacteria and promote plant growth. Additionally, different treatments also changed the abundance of potential microbial functional genes. Compared to CK, other treatments increased the abundance of aerobic ammonia oxidation and denitrification but decreased the abundance of nitrate respiration and nitrogen respiration; meanwhile, these four functional genes involved in N cycling processes were obviously higher in treatments with microplastics combined with biochar than in treatments with microplastics alone. In conclusion, microplastics combined with biochar could alleviate the negative effects of microplastic accumulation on sugarcane biomass by altering soil nutrients and microbial community structure and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qihua Wu
- Institute of Nanfan & Seed Industry, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510316, China; (Q.W.); (W.Z.); (D.C.)
| | - Wenling Zhou
- Institute of Nanfan & Seed Industry, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510316, China; (Q.W.); (W.Z.); (D.C.)
| | - Diwen Chen
- Institute of Nanfan & Seed Industry, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510316, China; (Q.W.); (W.Z.); (D.C.)
| | - Jiang Tian
- Root Biology Center, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China;
| | - Junhua Ao
- Institute of Nanfan & Seed Industry, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510316, China; (Q.W.); (W.Z.); (D.C.)
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47
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Lu S, Hao J, Yang H, Chen M, Lian J, Chen Y, Brown RW, Jones DL, Wan Z, Wang W, Chang W, Wu D. Earthworms mediate the influence of polyethylene (PE) and polylactic acid (PLA) microplastics on soil bacterial communities. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 905:166959. [PMID: 37696400 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166959] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
There is a growing body of evidence that suggests that both biodegradable and conventional (non-degradable) microplastics (MP) are hazardous to soil health by affecting the delivery of key ecological functions such as litter decomposition, nutrient cycling and water retention. Specifically, soil fauna may be harmed by the presence of MPs while also being involved in their disintegration, degradation, migration and transfer in soil. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the interactions between MPs and soil fauna is essential. Here, we conducted a 120-day soil microcosm experiment applying polyethylene (PE) and polylactic acid (PLA), in the absence/presence of the earthworm Eisenia nordenskioldi to estimate the relative singular and combined impact of MPs and earthworms on the soil bacterial community. Our findings revealed contrasting effects of PE and PLA on the composition and diversity of soil bacteria. All treatments affected the community and network structure of the soil bacterial community. Compared to the control (no MPs or earthworms), PE decreased bacterial alpha diversity, while PLA increased it. Patescibacteria were found to be significantly abundant in the PE group whereas Actinobacteria and Gemmatimonadetes were more abundant in PE, and PLA and earthworms groups. The presence of earthworms appeared to mediate the impact of PE/PLA on soil bacteria, potentially through bacterial consumption or by altering soil properties (e.g., pH, aeration, C availability). Earthworm presence also appeared to promote the chemical aging of PLA. Collectively, our results provide novel insights into the soil-fauna-driven impact of degradable/nondegradable MPs exposure on the long-term environmental risks associated with soil microorganisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyuan Lu
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Vegetation Restoration, School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin 130117, China
| | - Jiahua Hao
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Vegetation Restoration, School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin 130117, China
| | - Hao Yang
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Vegetation Restoration, School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin 130117, China
| | - Mengya Chen
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Vegetation Restoration, School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin 130117, China
| | - Jiapan Lian
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecosystem Health, College of Environmental and Resources Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yalan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Robert W Brown
- School of Environmental and Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2UW, UK
| | - Davey L Jones
- School of Environmental and Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2UW, UK
| | - Zhuoma Wan
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Vegetation Restoration, School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin 130117, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Preparation and Applications of Environmental Friendly Materials, Ministry of Education, Jilin Normal University, Changchun 130103, China
| | - Wenjin Chang
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Vegetation Restoration, School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin 130117, China
| | - Donghui Wu
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Vegetation Restoration, School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin 130117, China; Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130102, China; Jilin Songnen Grassland Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024, China; Key Laboratory of Vegetation Ecology, Ministry of Education, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024, China; Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resource Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130117, China.
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48
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Li T, Cui L, Xu Z, Liu H, Cui X, Fantke P. Micro- and nanoplastics in soil: Linking sources to damage on soil ecosystem services in life cycle assessment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166925. [PMID: 37689210 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
Soil ecosystems are crucial for providing vital ecosystem services (ES), and are increasingly pressured by the intensification and expansion of human activities, leading to potentially harmful consequences for their related ES provision. Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs), associated with releases from various human activities, have become prevalent in various soil ecosystems and pose a global threat. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), a tool for evaluating environmental performance of product and technology life cycles, has yet to adequately include MNPs-related damage to soil ES, owing to factors like uncertainties in MNPs environmental fate and ecotoxicological effects, and characterizing related damage on soil species loss, functional diversity, and ES. This study aims to address this gap by providing as a first step an overview of the current understanding of MNPs in soil ecosystems and proposing a conceptual approach to link MNPs impacts to soil ES damage. We find that MNPs pervade soil ecosystems worldwide, introduced through various pathways, including wastewater discharge, urban runoff, atmospheric deposition, and degradation of larger plastic debris. MNPs can inflict a range of ecotoxicity effects on soil species, including physical harm, chemical toxicity, and pollutants bioaccumulation. Methods to translate these impacts into damage on ES are under development and typically focus on discrete, yet not fully integrated aspects along the impact-to-damage pathway. We propose a conceptual framework for linking different MNPs effects on soil organisms to damage on soil species loss, functional diversity loss and loss of ES, and elaborate on each link. Proposed underlying approaches include the Threshold Indicator Taxa Analysis (TITAN) for translating ecotoxicological effects associated with MNPs into quantitative measures of soil species diversity damage; trait-based approaches for linking soil species loss to functional diversity loss; and ecological networks and Bayesian Belief Networks for linking functional diversity loss to soil ES damage. With the proposed conceptual framework, our study constitutes a starting point for including the characterization of MNPs-related damage on soil ES in LCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Li
- Quantitative Sustainability Assessment, Department of Environmental and Resource Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Bygningstorvet 115, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark; School of Environment and Science, Centre for Planetary Health and Food Security, Griffith University, Nathan, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Lizhen Cui
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhihong Xu
- School of Environment and Science, Centre for Planetary Health and Food Security, Griffith University, Nathan, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Hongdou Liu
- School of Environment and Science, Centre for Planetary Health and Food Security, Griffith University, Nathan, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia.
| | - Xiaoyong Cui
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Peter Fantke
- Quantitative Sustainability Assessment, Department of Environmental and Resource Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Bygningstorvet 115, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark.
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49
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Rohrbach S, Gkoutselis G, Hink L, Weig AR, Obst M, Diekmann A, Ho A, Rambold G, Horn MA. Microplastic polymer properties as deterministic factors driving terrestrial plastisphere microbiome assembly and succession in the field. Environ Microbiol 2023; 25:2681-2697. [PMID: 36224114 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.16234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Environmental microplastic (MP) is ubiquitous in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems providing artificial habitats for microbes. Mechanisms of MP colonization, MP polymer impacts, and effects on soil microbiomes are largely unknown in terrestrial systems. Therefore, we experimentally tested the hypothesis that MP polymer type is an important deterministic factor affecting MP community assembly by incubating common MP polymer types in situ in landfill soil for 14 months. 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing indicated that MP polymers have specific impacts on plastisphere microbiomes, which are subsets of the soil microbiome. Chloroflexota, Gammaproteobacteria, certain Nitrososphaerota, and Nanoarchaeota explained differences among MP polymers and time points. Plastisphere microbial community composition derived from different MP diverged over time and was enriched in potential pathogens. PICRUSt predictions of pathway abundances and quantitative PCR of functional marker genes indicated that MP polymers exerted an ambivalent effect on genetic potentials of biogeochemical cycles. Overall, the data indicate that (i) polymer type as deterministic factor rather than stochastic factors drives plastisphere community assembly, (ii) MP impacts greenhouse gas metabolism, xenobiotic degradation and pathogen distribution, and (iii) MP serves as an ideal model system for studying fundamental questions in microbial ecology such as community assembly mechanisms in terrestrial environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan Rohrbach
- Institute of Microbiology, Leibniz University Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Linda Hink
- Institute of Microbiology, Leibniz University Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Alfons R Weig
- Genomics and Bioinformatics, University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Martin Obst
- Experimental Biogeochemistry, BayCEER, University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Astrid Diekmann
- Deutsches Institut für Kautschuktechnologie e.V., Hannover, Germany
| | - Adrian Ho
- Institute of Microbiology, Leibniz University Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Gerhard Rambold
- Department of Mycology, University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Marcus A Horn
- Institute of Microbiology, Leibniz University Hannover, Hannover, Germany
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50
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Fan Z, Jiang C, Muhammad T, Ali I, Feng Y, Sun L, Geng H. Impacts and mechanism of biodegradable microplastics on lake sediment properties, bacterial dynamics, and greenhouse gasses emissions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 900:165727. [PMID: 37487892 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
The accumulation of microplastics (MPs) in freshwater ecosystems plays a vital role in greenhouse gases (GHGs) emissions from lake sediment by altering sediment properties and microbial communities. Thus, a short-term microcosm experiment was performed to explore the effect of conventional polyethylene (PE) and biodegradable Poly (butylene-adipate-co-terephtalate) (PBAT) MPs on carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) emissions from lake sediment and associated microbial community. The results indicated that at 1.0 % concentration, the cumulative CO2 emissions were increased by 16.8 % and the cumulative CH4 emissions were increased more than four times following the addition of biodegradable MPs compared to conventional MPs, which was due to the more dissolved organic carbon (DOC) provided by biodegradable MPs for microbial respiration. Furthermore, the cumulative CO2 and CH4 emissions significantly (p < 0.05) increased with the increasing concentrations of biodegradable MPs. Notably, the accumulation of MPs could weaken the microbial stress from requirements of energy and substrate, and increase the microbial biomass carbon (MBC) value, thus eventually improving the respiratory capacity of microbes. In addition, the biodegradable MPs significantly increased the abundance of microbes, such as Firmicutes, Myxococcota and Actinobacteriota, which were related to the function of anaerobic respiration. Overall, we concluded that the abundant DOC provided by biodegradable MPs could promote the growth of microbes in lake sediment, and they could change the structure and diversity of the microbial community, which would eventually enhance the anaerobic respiration of microbes and aggravate the GHGs emissions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zequn Fan
- College of Hydrology and Water Resources, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China.
| | - Cuiling Jiang
- College of Hydrology and Water Resources, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China.
| | - Tahir Muhammad
- College of Hydrology and Water Resources, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China.
| | - Imran Ali
- College of environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Yakun Feng
- College of Hydrology and Water Resources, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Lei Sun
- College of Hydrology and Water Resources, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Hui Geng
- College of Hydrology and Water Resources, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China.
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