1
|
Rades M, Poschet G, Gegner H, Wilke T, Reichert J. Chronic effects of exposure to polyethylene microplastics may be mitigated at the expense of growth and photosynthesis in reef-building corals. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 205:116631. [PMID: 38917503 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116631] [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: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
The causes of the physiological effects of microplastic pollution, potentially harming reef-building corals, are unclear. Reasons might include increased energy demands for handling particles and immune reactions. This study is among the first assessing the effects of long-term microplastic exposure on coral physiology at realistic concentrations (200 polyethylene particles L-1). The coral species Acropora muricata, Pocillopora verrucosa, Porites lutea, and Heliopora coerulea were exposed to microplastics for 11 months, and energy reserves, metabolites, growth, and photosymbiont state were analyzed. Results showed an overall low impact on coral physiology, yet species-specific effects occurred. Specifically, H. coerulea exhibited reduced growth, P. lutea and A. muricata showed changes in photosynthetic efficiency, and A. muricata variations in taurine levels. These findings suggest that corals may possess compensatory mechanisms mitigating the effects of microplastics. However, realistic microplastic concentrations only occasionally affected corals. Yet, corals exposed to increasing pollution scenarios will likely experience more negative impacts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marvin Rades
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.
| | - Gernot Poschet
- Metabolomics Core Technology Platform, Centre for Organismal Studies, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hagen Gegner
- Metabolomics Core Technology Platform, Centre for Organismal Studies, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Wilke
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Jessica Reichert
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany; Hawai'i Institute of Marine Biology, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Kāne'ohe, HI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Chen YT, Ding DS, Lim YC, Dong CD, Hsieh SL. Combined toxicity of microplastics and copper on Goniopora columns. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 345:123515. [PMID: 38346639 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123515] [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: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
As microplastics (MP) become ubiquitous, their interactions with heavy metals threatens the coral ecosystem. This study aimed to assess the combined toxicity of MP and copper (Cu) in the environment of coral. Goniopora columna was exposed to polyethylene microplastics (PE-MP) combined with Cu2+ at 10, 20, 50, 100, and 300 μg/L for 7 days. Polyp length and adaptability were recorded daily, and coral samples were collected at 1, 3, 5, and 7 days to analyse zooxanthellae density and antioxidant activity. Tissue observations and the analysis of MP and Cu2+ accumulation were conducted on the 7th day. After 1 day of exposure, PE-MP combined with different concentrations of Cu2+ significantly decreased polyp length and adaptability compared with PE-MP alone. Simultaneously, a significant increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) content, lead to coral oxidative stress, which was a combined effect with PE-MP. After 3 days of exposure, PE-MP combined with Cu2+ at >50 μg/L significantly reduced zooxanthellae density, damaging the coral's symbiotic relationship. In antioxidant enzyme activity, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity decreased significantly after 1 day of exposure. After 3 days of exposure, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity significantly increased with Cu2+ at >20 μg/L. After 5 days of exposure, PE-MP combined with different concentrations of Cu2+ significantly reduced catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), and glutathione transferase (GST) activity, disrupting the antioxidant enzyme system, and acting antagonistically to PE-MP alone. Tissue observations revealed that the PE-MP combined with Cu2+ at >50 μg/L caused severe mesenteric atrophy, vacuolar, and Cu2+ accumulation in the coral mesenteric compared with PE-MP alone. The results suggest that combined exposure of PE-MP and copper leads to more severe oxidative stress, disruption antioxidant enzyme system, tissue damage, and Cu2+ accumulation, resulting in a significant maladaptation of corals to the environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Ting Chen
- Department of Seafood Science, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung, 81157, Taiwan
| | - De-Sing Ding
- Department and Graduate Institute of Aquaculture, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung, 81157, Taiwan
| | - Yee Cheng Lim
- Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung, 81157, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Di Dong
- Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung, 81157, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Ling Hsieh
- Department of Seafood Science, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung, 81157, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gobbato J, Becchi A, Bises C, Siena F, Lasagni M, Saliu F, Galli P, Montano S. Occurrence of phthalic acid esters (PAEs) and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) in key species of anthozoans in Mediterranean Sea. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 200:116078. [PMID: 38290362 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116078] [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: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
The Mediterranean Sea's biodiversity is declining due to climate change and human activities, with plastics and emerging contaminants (ECs) posing significant threats. This study assessed phthalic acid esters (PAEs) and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) occurrence in four anthozoan species (Cladocora caespitosa, Eunicella cavolini, Madracis pharensis, Parazoanthus axinellae) using solid phase microextraction (SPME) and liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). All specimens were contaminated with at least one contaminant, reaching maximum values of 57.3 ng/g for the ∑PAEs and 64.2 ng/g (wet weight) for ∑APIs, with dibutyl phthalate and Ketoprofen being the most abundant. P. axinellae was the most contaminated species, indicating higher susceptibility to bioaccumulation, while the other three species showed two-fold lower concentrations. Moreover, the potential adverse effects of these contaminants on anthozoans have been discussed. Investigating the impact of PAEs and APIs on these species is crucial, given their key role in the Mediterranean benthic communities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Gobbato
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences (DISAT), University of Milan - Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza, 20126 Milan, Italy; MaRHE Center (Marine Research and High Education Center), Magoodhoo Island, 12030 Faafu Atoll, Maldives.
| | - A Becchi
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences (DISAT), University of Milan - Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza, 20126 Milan, Italy
| | - C Bises
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences (DISAT), University of Milan - Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza, 20126 Milan, Italy; MaRHE Center (Marine Research and High Education Center), Magoodhoo Island, 12030 Faafu Atoll, Maldives
| | - F Siena
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences (DISAT), University of Milan - Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza, 20126 Milan, Italy; MaRHE Center (Marine Research and High Education Center), Magoodhoo Island, 12030 Faafu Atoll, Maldives
| | - M Lasagni
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences (DISAT), University of Milan - Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza, 20126 Milan, Italy
| | - F Saliu
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences (DISAT), University of Milan - Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza, 20126 Milan, Italy
| | - P Galli
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences (DISAT), University of Milan - Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza, 20126 Milan, Italy; MaRHE Center (Marine Research and High Education Center), Magoodhoo Island, 12030 Faafu Atoll, Maldives; University of Dubai, P.O. Box 14143, Dubai Academic City, United Arab Emirates; NBFC (National Biodiversity Future Center), 90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - S Montano
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences (DISAT), University of Milan - Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza, 20126 Milan, Italy; MaRHE Center (Marine Research and High Education Center), Magoodhoo Island, 12030 Faafu Atoll, Maldives; NBFC (National Biodiversity Future Center), 90133 Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Reichert J, Tirpitz V, Oponczewski M, Lin C, Franke N, Ziegler M, Wilke T. Feeding responses of reef-building corals provide species- and concentration-dependent risk assessment of microplastic. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 913:169485. [PMID: 38143004 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169485] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
The negative impacts of microplastic on reef-building corals are often attributed to the feeding responses to these particles. Although reactions to and ingestion of microplastic are frequently reported, a quantitative comparison to natural particles and of the factors influencing these responses is largely missing. Thus, this study aims to compare the feeding rates of corals to microplastic and natural particles, considering factors influencing these responses. Specifically, we I) studied the feeding responses of corals to microplastic, natural food, and non-food particles, II) examined the influence of biotic factors (i.e., biofilm on the particles and presence of natural food), III) evaluated species-specific differences in feeding responses to microplastic particles, and IV) applied a toxicodynamic model for species- and concentration-dependent risk assessments. We assessed the feeding responses of 11 coral species, spanning different life-history strategies and growth forms in experimental feeding trials. The results showed that the feeding responses of corals to microplastic differ from those to naturally occurring particles. Reactions to microplastic and natural food occurred equally often, while sand was more frequently rejected. Yet, the ingestion process was much more selective, and microplastic was ingested less frequently than natural food. The presence of a biofilm and natural food had activating effects on the feeding behavior of the corals on microplastic. Generally, coral species that exhibit a higher degree of heterotrophic feeding also reacted more often to microplastic. The species- and concentration-dependent toxicodynamic risk model built on these data reveals that most tested coral species are unlikely to be at risk under present environmental concentration levels. However, highly heterotrophic feeders, such as Blastomussa merleti, or generally vulnerable species, such as Pocillopora verrucosa, need special consideration. These findings help to better evaluate the responses of corals to microplastic and their risk in an increasingly polluted ocean.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Reichert
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany; Hawai'i Institute of Marine Biology, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, HI, Kāne'ohe, USA.
| | - Vanessa Tirpitz
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Mareike Oponczewski
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Chieh Lin
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Niklas Franke
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Maren Ziegler
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Thomas Wilke
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Reichert J, Tirpitz V, Plaza K, Wörner E, Bösser L, Kühn S, Primpke S, Schubert P, Ziegler M, Wilke T. Common types of microdebris affect the physiology of reef-building corals. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169276. [PMID: 38086480 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Marine debris, particularly microdebris (< 1 mm) poses a potential threat to marine life, including reef-building corals. While previous research has mainly focused on the impact of single polymer microplastics, the effects of natural microdebris, composed of a mixture of materials, have not been explored. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effects of different microdebris, originating from major sources of pollution, on reef-building corals. For this, we exposed two scleractinian coral species, Pocillopora verrucosa and Stylophora pistillata, known to frequently ingest microplastics, to four types of microdebris in an 8-week laboratory experiment: fragmented environmental plastic debris, artificial fibers from clothing, residues from the automobile sector consisting of tire wear, brake abrasion, and varnish flakes, a single polymer microplastic treatment consisting of polyethylene particles, and a microdebris-free control treatment. Specifically, we (I) compared the effects of the different microdebris on coral growth, necrosis, and photosynthesis, (II) investigated the difference between the microdebris mixtures and the exposure to the single polymer treatment, and (III) identified potential mechanisms causing species-specific effects by contrasting the feeding responses of the two coral species on microdebris and natural food. We show that the fibers and tire wear had the strongest effects on coral physiology, with P. verrucosa being more affected than S. pistillata. Both species showed increased volume growth in response to the microdebris treatments, accompanied by decreased calcification in P. verrucosa. Photosynthetic efficiency of the symbionts was enhanced in both species. The species-specific physiological responses might be attributed to feeding reactions, with P. verrucosa responding significantly more often to microdebris than S. pistillata. These findings highlight the effect of different microdebris on coral physiology and the need for future studies to use particle mixtures to better mimic naturally occurring microdebris and assess its effect on corals in more detail.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Reichert
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany; Hawai'i Institute of Marine Biology, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, HI, Kāne'ohe, USA.
| | - Vanessa Tirpitz
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Katherine Plaza
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Wörner
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany; Department of Geoscience, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Luisa Bösser
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Susanne Kühn
- Wageningen Marine Research, Den Helder, the Netherlands
| | - Sebastian Primpke
- Alfred-Wegener-Institute Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, Helgoland, Germany
| | - Patrick Schubert
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Maren Ziegler
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Thomas Wilke
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Mendrik F, Houseago RC, Hackney CR, Parsons DR. Microplastic trapping efficiency and hydrodynamics in model coral reefs: A physical experimental investigation. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 342:123094. [PMID: 38072017 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.123094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Coastal ecosystems, such as coral reefs, are vulnerable to microplastic pollution input from proximal riverine and shoreline sources. However, deposition, retention, and transport processes are largely unevaluated, especially in relation to hydrodynamics. For the first time, we experimentally investigate the retention of biofilmed microplastic by branching 3D printed corals (staghorn coral Acropora genus) under various unidirectional flows (U = {0.15, 0.20, 0.25, 0.30} ms-1) and canopy densities (15 and 48 corals m-2). These variables are found to drive trapping efficiency, with 79-98% of microplastics retained in coral canopies across the experimental duration at high flow velocities (U = 0.25-0.30 ms-1), compared to 10-13% for the bare bed, with denser canopies retaining only 15% more microplastics than the sparse canopy at highest flow conditions (U = 0.30 ms-1). Three fundamental trapping mechanisms were identified: (a) particle interception, (b) settlement on branches or within coral, and (c) accumulation in the downstream wake region of the coral. Corresponding hydrodynamics reveal that microplastic retention and spatial distribution is modulated by the energy-dissipative effects of corals due to flow-structure interactions reducing in-canopy velocities and generating localised turbulence. The wider ecological implications for coral systems are discussed in light of the findings, particularly in terms of concentrations and locations of plastic accumulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Freija Mendrik
- Energy and Environment Institute, University of Hull, UK; International Marine Litter Research Unit, University of Plymouth, UK; School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, UK.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Tang CH, Lin CY, Li HH, Kuo FW. Microplastics elicit an immune-agitative state in coral. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 908:168406. [PMID: 37939952 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution in the ocean is a major problem, as its pervasiveness elicits concerns the health impacts microplastics may have on marine life (such as reef-building corals). As a primary endpoint, the organismal lipidome can define the weakening of fitness and reveal the physiological context of adverse health effects in organisms. To gain insight into the effects of microplastics on coral health, lipid profiling was performed via an untargeted lipidomic approach on the coral Turbinaria mesenterina exposed to ~10 μm polystyrene microparticles for 10 days. Considerable microplastic accumulation and obvious effects relating with immune activation were observed in the coral treated with a near environmentally relevant concentration of microplastics (10 μg/L); however, these effects were not evident in the high level (100 μg/L) treatment group. In particular, increased levels of membrane lipids with 20:4 and 22:6 fatty acid chains reallocated from the triacylglycerol pool were observed in coral host cells and symbiotic algae, respectively, which could upregulate immune activity and realign symbiotic communication in coral. High levels of polyunsaturation can sensitize the coral cell membrane to lipid peroxidation and increase cell death, which is of greater concern; additionally, the photoprotective capacity of symbiotic algae was compromised. As a result, coral physiological functions were altered. These results show that, realistic levels of microplastic pollution can affect coral health and should be a concern.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chuan-Ho Tang
- National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium, Pingtung, Taiwan; Department of Marine Biotechnology and Resources, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Aerosol Science Research Center, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
| | - Ching-Yu Lin
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsing-Hui Li
- National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium, Pingtung, Taiwan; Department of Marine Biotechnology and Resources, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Fu-Wen Kuo
- National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium, Pingtung, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Soares MO, Rizzo L, Ximenes Neto AR, Barros Y, Martinelli Filho JE, Giarrizzo T, Rabelo EF. Do coral reefs act as sinks for microplastics? ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 337:122509. [PMID: 37690465 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution has been detected in coral reefs, raising concerns regarding its global impact. Although they cover a small portion (<1%) of the total area of the world's oceans, coral reefs are geological and biological structures that trap MPs and disproportionately enhance their accumulation. In this review, we attempted to understand how coral reefs act as short- and long-term sinks for MPs. We describe five characteristics that lead to the enrichment of microplastics in coral reefs: 1) adhesion on reef-building corals at distinct depths; 2) ingestion by reef organisms (e.g., suspension feeders, such as sponges, ascidians, and corals), bioconcentration, and formation of short-term (i.e., years to decades) biological sinks for MPs; 3) formation of long-term (i.e., centuries) MP sinks in coral skeletons and unconsolidated subsurface sediments; 4) reduction of sediment resuspension and seafloor turbulent kinetic energy by complex marine forest architecture that reduces bottom shear stress, facilitates the retention, and deposition of small (<0.5 mm) and high-density floating MPs; and 5) diagenesis of Anthropocene sedimentary rocks containing MPs. We estimate that reef processes may remove more than 10% of floating MPs in shallow tropical waters yearly. Statistical results show that microplastic abundance for reef-building corals are higher than values found in reef sediments and especially in seawater. Moreover, pellets, films, foams and mainly fragments and fibers have been found. These field-based data support our hypothesis of sinks in the reef sediments and organisms. We highlight the role of these seascapes in the interception of MPs as traps and sinks in reef sediments, biota, and carbonate frameworks. As coral reefs are prone to MP accumulation and can become pollution hotspots, global initiatives are necessary to conserve these rich ecosystems and prevent rapidly increasing plastic pollution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo O Soares
- Instituto de Ciências Do Mar (LABOMAR), Universidade Federal Do Ceará (UFC), Fortaleza, Brazil; Center for Marine and Environmental Studies (CMES), University of the Virgin Islands (UVI), Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Reef Systems Group, Leibniz Center for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT), Bremen, Germany.
| | - Lucia Rizzo
- Institute of Sciences of Food Production, National Research Council (CNR-ISPA), Via Prov.le Lecce Monteroni, 73100 Lecce, Italy; National Inter-University Consortium for Marine Sciences (CoNISMa), Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00196 Roma, Italy
| | - Antonio Rodrigues Ximenes Neto
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Oceanografia Ambiental (Labogeo), Universidade Federal Do Espírito Santo (UFES), Vitória, Brazil; Departamento de Geografia/CERES, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Caicó, Brazil
| | - Yasmin Barros
- Instituto de Ciências Do Mar (LABOMAR), Universidade Federal Do Ceará (UFC), Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - José Eduardo Martinelli Filho
- Centro de Estudos Avançados da Biodiversidade (CEABIO) and Instituto de Geociências, Universidade Federal Do Pará (UFPA), Belém, Brazil
| | - Tommaso Giarrizzo
- Instituto de Ciências Do Mar (LABOMAR), Universidade Federal Do Ceará (UFC), Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Emanuelle F Rabelo
- Departamento de Biociências, Universidade Federal Rural Do Semiárido (UFERSA), Mossoró, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Harris LST, Phan S, DiMarco D, Padilla-Gamiño JL, Luscombe C, Carrington E. Microparticles in marine mussels at regional and localized scales across the Salish Sea, Washington. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 196:115609. [PMID: 37806012 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115609] [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: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Microparticles (MP; particles <5 mm) are ubiquitous in marine environments. Understanding MP concentrations at different spatial scales in the Salish Sea, Washington, USA, can provide insight into how ecologically and economically important species may be affected. We collected mussels across the Salish Sea at regional and localized scales, chemically processed tissue to assess MP contamination, and used visual and chemical analyses for particle identification. Throughout the Salish Sea, mussel MP concentrations averaged 0.75 ± 0.09 MP g-1 wet tissue. At a regional scale, we identified slight differences in concentrations and morphotypes of MP while at a localized scale these metrics were not significant and did not differ from controls. In a subset of particles, 20 % were identified as synthetic materials, which include polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), and nylon. Differences in MP sources, heterogeneous transport of MP, and distinct shellfish feeding mechanisms may contribute to plastic contamination patterns in the Salish Sea.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lyda S T Harris
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Friday Harbor Laboratories, Friday Harbor, WA, USA.
| | - Samantha Phan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington Seattle, WA 98195, USA; pi-Conjugated Polymers Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Onna, Okinawa 904-0495, Japan
| | | | - Jacqueline L Padilla-Gamiño
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, University of Washington Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Christine Luscombe
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington Seattle, WA 98195, USA; pi-Conjugated Polymers Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Onna, Okinawa 904-0495, Japan; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Washington Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Emily Carrington
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Friday Harbor Laboratories, Friday Harbor, WA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Hossain MB, Yu J, Ujjaman Nur AA, Banik P, Jolly YN, Mamun MA, Arai T, Albeshr MF. Microplastics in surface water from a mighty subtropical estuary: First observations on occurrence, characterization, and contamination assessment. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 226:115594. [PMID: 36907342 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115594] [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: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Estuarine contamination by Microplastics (MPs) is a mater of serious concern since these areas offer the society valuable ecosystem, economic, and recreational services such as breeding and feeding ground for fish, carbon fixation, nutrients recycling and port development. The Meghna estuary, located along the Bengal delta coast, provides livelihoods for thousands of peoples in Bangladesh, and served as breeding ground for national fish, Hilsha shad. Therefore, knowledge and understanding on any kind of pollution including MPs of this estuary is essential. In this study, the abundance, characteristics and contamination assessment of MPs from the surface water of a Meghna estuary were investigated for the first time. The results demonstrated that MPs were present in all samples and the abundance ranged from 33.33 to 316.67 item/m3 with a mean value of 128.89 ± 67.94 item/m3. Morphological analyses resulted in four types of MPs such as fibers (87%), fragments (6%), foam (4%), and films (3%) with the majority of these being colored (62%) and smaller (<0.5 mm) in size (88%). On the other hand, FTIR analysis for chemical characteristics confirmed five types of polymers, including polythene (PE), polystyrene (PS), polythene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The area was determined to be moderately to severely contaminated with MPs based on contamination factor (CF) values (6.18 ± 2.08 to 2.50 ± 1.0) and the pollutant load index (PLI) value (1.94 ± 0.33) as these values were > 3-6 for CF, and >1 for PLI. These results can be utilized to develop policy for the protection of this important environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Belal Hossain
- School of Engineering and Built Environment, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, 4111, Australia; Department of Fisheries and Marine Science, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, 3814, Bangladesh.
| | - Jimmy Yu
- School of Engineering and Built Environment, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, 4111, Australia
| | - As-Ad Ujjaman Nur
- Department of Fisheries and Marine Science, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, 3814, Bangladesh
| | - Partho Banik
- Department of Fisheries and Marine Science, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, 3814, Bangladesh
| | - Yeasmin N Jolly
- Atmospheric and Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Chemistry Division, Atomic Energy Centre, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Md Al- Mamun
- Materials Science Division, Atomic Energy Centre Dhaka, Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh.
| | - Takaomi Arai
- Environmental and Life Sciences Programme, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
| | - Mohammed Fahad Albeshr
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Rahman MN, Shozib SH, Akter MY, Islam ARMT, Islam MS, Sohel MS, Kamaraj C, Rakib MRJ, Idris AM, Sarker A, Malafaia G. Microplastic as an invisible threat to the coral reefs: Sources, toxicity mechanisms, policy intervention, and the way forward. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 454:131522. [PMID: 37146332 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution waste is a global macro problem, and research on MP contamination has been done in marine, freshwater, and terrestrial ecosystems. Preventing MP pollution from hurting them is essential to maintaining coral reefs' ecological and economic benefits. However, the public and scientific communities must pay more attention to MP research on the coral reef regions' distribution, effects, mechanisms, and policy evaluations. Therefore, this review summarizes the global MP distribution and source within the coral reefs. Current knowledge extends the impacts of MP on coral reefs, existing policy, and further recommendations to mitigate MPs contamination on corals are critically analyzed. Furthermore, mechanisms of MP on coral and human health are also highlighted to pinpoint research gaps and potential future studies. Given the escalating plastic usage and the prevalence of coral bleaching globally, there is a pressing need to prioritize research efforts on marine MPs that concentrate on critical coral reef areas. Such investigations should encompass an extensive and crucial understanding of the distribution, destiny, and effects of the MPs on human and coral health and the potential hazards of those MPs from an ecological viewpoint.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Md Naimur Rahman
- Department of Geography and Environmental Science, Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur 5400, Bangladesh
| | | | - Mst Yeasmin Akter
- Department of Disaster Management, Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur 5400, Bangladesh
| | - Abu Reza Md Towfiqul Islam
- Department of Disaster Management, Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur 5400, Bangladesh; Department of Development Studies, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1216, Bangladesh.
| | - Md Saiful Islam
- Department of Soil Science, Patuakhali Science and Technology University, Dumki, Patuakhali 8602, Bangladesh
| | - Md Salman Sohel
- Department of Development Studies, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1216, Bangladesh
| | - Chinnaperumal Kamaraj
- Interdisciplinary Institute of Indian System of Medicine (IIISM), Directorate of Research, SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST), Kattankulathur 603203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Md Refat Jahan Rakib
- Department of Fisheries and Marine Science, Faculty of Science, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
| | - Abubakr M Idris
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia; Research Center for Advanced Materials Science (RCAMS), King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aniruddha Sarker
- Department of Agro-food Safety and Crop Protection, National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Rural Development Administration, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Guilherme Malafaia
- Post-Graduation Program in Conservation of Cerrado Natural Resources, Goiano Federal Institute, Urutaí, GO, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Ecology, Conservation, and Biodiversity, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Biotechnology and Biodiversity, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Nama S, Shanmughan A, Nayak BB, Bhushan S, Ramteke K. Impacts of marine debris on coral reef ecosystem: A review for conservation and ecological monitoring of the coral reef ecosystem. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 189:114755. [PMID: 36905864 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114755] [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: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Coral reefs are the most spectacular underwater creation of nature. It enhances ecosystem functioning and marine biodiversity while also ensuring the livelihood of millions of coastal communities worldwide. Unfortunately, marine debris poses a serious threat to ecologically sensitive reef habitats and their associated organisms. Over the past decade, marine debris has been regarded as a major anthropogenic threat to marine ecosystems and gained scientific attention around the globe. However, the sources, types, abundance, distribution, and potential consequences of marine debris on reef ecosystems are hardly known. The goal of this review is to provide an overview of the current status of marine debris in various reef ecosystems across the world, with special emphasis on its sources, abundance, distribution, species impacted, major categories, potential impacts and management strategies. Furthermore, the adhesion mechanisms of microplastics to coral polyps, diseases caused by microplastics and are also highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suman Nama
- Fisheries Resource Harvest and Post-Harvest Management Division, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Panch Marg, Off Yari Road, Versova, Mumbai 400061, India.
| | - Ashna Shanmughan
- Fisheries Resource Harvest and Post-Harvest Management Division, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Panch Marg, Off Yari Road, Versova, Mumbai 400061, India
| | - Binaya Bhusan Nayak
- Fisheries Resource Harvest and Post-Harvest Management Division, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Panch Marg, Off Yari Road, Versova, Mumbai 400061, India
| | - Shashi Bhushan
- Fisheries Resource Harvest and Post-Harvest Management Division, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Panch Marg, Off Yari Road, Versova, Mumbai 400061, India
| | - Karankumar Ramteke
- Fisheries Resource Harvest and Post-Harvest Management Division, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Panch Marg, Off Yari Road, Versova, Mumbai 400061, India
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Xiao B, Li D, Liao B, Zheng H, Yang X, Xie Y, Xie Z, Li C. Effects of microplastic combined with Cr(III) on apoptosis and energy pathway of coral endosymbiont. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:39750-39763. [PMID: 36602726 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-25041-x] [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: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The combined effect of polyethylene (PE) microplastics and chromium (Cr(III)) on the scleractinian coral Acropora pruinosa (A. pruinosa) was investigated. The endpoints analysed in this study included the endosymbiont density, the chlorophyll a + c content, and the activity of enzymes involved in apoptosis (caspase-1, caspase-3), glycolysis (lactate dehydrogenase, LDH), the pentose phosphate pathway (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, G6PDH) and electron transfer coenzyme (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, NAD+/NADH). During the 7-day exposure to PE and Cr(III) stress, the endosymbiont density and chlorophyll content decreased gradually. The caspase-1 and caspase-3 activities increased in the high-concentration Cr(III) exposure group. Furthermore, the LDH and G6PDH activities decreased significantly, and the NAD+/NADH was decreased significantly. In summary, the results showed that PE and Cr(III) stress inhibited the endosymbiont energy metabolism enzymes and further led to endosymbiont apoptosis in coral. In addition, under exposure to the combination of stressors, when the concentration of Cr(III) remained at 1 × 10-2 mg/L, the toxic effects of heavy metals on the endosymbiont were temporarily relieved with elevated PE concentrations. In contrast, when coral polyps were exposed to 5 mg/L PE and increasing Cr(III) concentrations, their metabolic activities were seriously disturbed, which increased the burden of energy consumption. In the short term, the toxic effect of Cr(III) was more obvious than that of PE because Cr(III) exposure leads to endosymbiont apoptosis and irreversible damage. This is the first study to provide insights into the combined effect of microplastic and Cr(III) stress on the apoptosis and energy pathways of coral endosymbionts. This study suggested that microplastics combined with Cr(III) are an important factor affecting the apoptosis and energy metabolism of endosymbionts, accelerating the collapse of the balance between the coral host and symbiotic endosymbiont.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Baohua Xiao
- Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, 518120, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Dongdong Li
- Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, 518120, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Baolin Liao
- Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, 518120, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Huina Zheng
- Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, 518120, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaodong Yang
- Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, 518120, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongqi Xie
- Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, 518120, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziqiang Xie
- Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, 518120, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Chengyong Li
- Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, 518120, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
- School of Chemistry and Environment, College of Food Science and Technology, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, 524088, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Chen YT, Ding DS, Lim YC, Singhania RR, Hsieh S, Chen CW, Hsieh SL, Dong CD. Impact of polyethylene microplastics on coral Goniopora columna causing oxidative stress and histopathology damages. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 828:154234. [PMID: 35245553 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, the increase of microplastics in the sea exerted a negative impact on coral health. This study has been undertaken to analyze the impact of microplastics on corals. Here, Goniopora columna was exposed to different concentrations of polyethylene microplastics (PE-MP). The daily polyps length and adaptability were recorded. Analysis of the zooxanthellae density and antioxidant activity of coral was done after 1, 3, 5 and 7 days. Further tissue morphology and accumulation of PE-MP were analyzed. The results showed that PE-MP at different concentrations can be adsorbed on the surface of corals and enter inside corals after 7 days. PE-MP at different concentrations reduced polyps length, adaptability and cause the changes in the density of zooxanthellae to be the reason for unbalancing of corals. PE-MP at different concentrations reduced the superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity after exposure to 1 day. PE-MP increased the catalase (CAT) activity at 100 mg/L after exposure; even after reducing the concentration has the same effect. PE-MP at various concentrations increased the glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity after exposure to 5 and 7 days. It also increased the glutathione transferase (GST) and glutathione (GSH) activity after exposure to 5 and 7 days. PE-MP at different concentrations increased the malondialdehyde (MDA) content after exposure from 1 to 7 days. Analysis of tissue morphology and tissue accumulation shows that different concentrations of PE-MP cause mesenteric atrophy, vacuole, and accumulation in the coral mesenteric. These results indicate that the PE-MP can impact the antioxidant system and hampers the function of enzymes responsible for detoxification of G. columna, increase lipid peroxide content and also cause tissue damage through accumulating in the coral mesenteric.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Ting Chen
- Department of Seafood Science, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan
| | - De-Sing Ding
- Department and Graduate Institute of Aquaculture, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 811, Taiwan
| | - Yee Cheng Lim
- Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan
| | - Reeta Rani Singhania
- Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan
| | - Shuchen Hsieh
- Department of Chemistry, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan
| | - Chiu-Wen Chen
- Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Ling Hsieh
- Department of Seafood Science, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan.
| | - Cheng-Di Dong
- Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Plafcan MM, Stallings CD. Microplastics do not affect bleaching of Acropora cervicornis at ambient or elevated temperatures. PeerJ 2022; 10:e13578. [PMID: 35734639 PMCID: PMC9208371 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.13578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Microplastic pollution can harm organisms and ecosystems such as coral reefs. Corals are important habitat-forming organisms that are sensitive to environmental conditions and have been declining due to stressors associated with climate change. Despite their ecological importance, it is unclear how corals may be affected by microplastics or if there are synergistic effects with rising ocean temperatures. To address this research gap, we experimentally examined the combined effects of environmentally relevant microplastic concentrations (i.e., the global average) and elevated temperatures on bleaching of the threatened Caribbean coral, Acropora cervicornis. In a controlled laboratory setting, we exposed coral fragments to orthogonally crossed treatment levels of low-density polyethylene microplastic beads (0 and 11.8 particles L-1) and water temperatures (ambient at 28 °C and elevated at 32 °C). Zooxanthellae densities were quantified after the 17-day experiment to measure the bleaching response. Regardless of microplastic treatment level, corals in the elevated temperature treatment were visibly bleached and necrotic (i.e., significant negative effect on zooxanthellae density) while those exposed to ambient temperature remained healthy. Thus, our study successfully elicited the expected bleaching response to a high-water temperature. However, we did not observe significant effects of microplastics at either individual (ambient temperature) or combined levels (elevated temperature). Although elevated temperatures remain a larger threat to corals, responses to microplastics are complex and may vary based on focal organisms or on plastic conditions (e.g., concentration, size, shape). Our findings add to a small but growing body of research on the effects of microplastics on corals, but further work is warranted in this emerging field to fully understand how sensitive ecosystems are affected by this pollutant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martina M. Plafcan
- College of Marine Science, University of South Florida, St. Petersburg, FL, United States of America
| | - Christopher D. Stallings
- College of Marine Science, University of South Florida, St. Petersburg, FL, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Isa V, Saliu F, Bises C, Vencato S, Raguso C, Montano S, Lasagni M, Lavorano S, Clemenza M, Galli P. Phthalates bioconcentration in the soft corals: Inter- and intra- species differences and ecological aspects. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 297:134247. [PMID: 35259364 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.134247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The bioconcentration of dimethyl phthalate (DMP) diethyl phthalate (DEP) dibutyl phthalate (DBP) butyl benzyl phthalate (BBzP), di-(2-ethy hexyl) phthalates (DEHP), mono-butyl phthalate (MBP), mono-benzyl phthalate (MBzP), mono-(2-ethy hexyl) phthalate (MEHP) in the soft corals Coelogorgia palmosa, Sinularia sp., Sarcophyton glaucum, and Lobophytum sp. was investigated. Specimens were cultured in a microcosm environment built-up at the Genova Aquarium and analyses were carried out by in vivo SPME-LC-MS/MS. The distributions of the phthalates among the four surveyed species resulted significantly different. Calculated bioconcentration factors (BCFs) showed values spanning over two orders of magnitude, from a minimum of log10 BCFDEP = 1.0 in Sarcophyton glaucum to a maximum of log10 BCFDBP = 3,9 calculated for Coelogorgia palmosa. Moreover, the calculated BCFs of the long chain phthalates resulted up to three orders of magnitude lower than theoretically predicted (from logKow), whereas BCF of short chain phthalates resulted higher. This, together with the detection of phthalic acid monoesters, suggests the presence of species-specific different metabolic transformation among the surveyed soft coral species that involve DEHP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valerio Isa
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126, Milano, Italy
| | - Francesco Saliu
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126, Milano, Italy.
| | - Chiara Bises
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126, Milano, Italy
| | - Sara Vencato
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126, Milano, Italy
| | - Clarissa Raguso
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126, Milano, Italy
| | - Simone Montano
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126, Milano, Italy; MaRHE Center (Marine Research and High Education Center), Magoodhoo Island, Faafu Atoll, Republic of, Maldives
| | - Marina Lasagni
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126, Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Lavorano
- Costa Edutainment SpA - Acquario di Genova, Area Porto Antico, Ponte Spinola, 16128, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Paolo Galli
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126, Milano, Italy; MaRHE Center (Marine Research and High Education Center), Magoodhoo Island, Faafu Atoll, Republic of, Maldives
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Hung CM, Huang CP, Hsieh SL, Chen YT, Ding DS, Hsieh S, Chen CW, Dong CD. Exposure of Goniopora columna to polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs): Effects of PE-MP concentration on extracellular polymeric substances and microbial community. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 297:134113. [PMID: 35227744 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.134113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Although the pollution of coral reefs by microplastics (MPs) is an environmental problem of global significance, the effects of MP concentration on scleractinian corals remain largely underexplored. Herein, we exposed a representative scleractinian coral (Goniopora columna) to different concentrations (5-300 mg L-1) of polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs; 40-48 μm) over seven days and evaluated the changes in microbial community and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) using fluorescence excitation-emission matrix spectroscopy and amplicon sequence variants (ASV). At a PE-MP concentration of 300 mg L-1, the relative abundance of Bacillus (Firmicutes phylum) and Ruegeria (Proteobacteria phylum) in PE-MP-associated EPS increased and decreased, respectively, while the effects of exposure depended on the particle size of the extracellular polymeric substance (EPS)-based matrix and the humification index. Humic- and fulvic-like substances were identified as critical EPS components produced by microbial activity. The results have shed new insights into short-term responses of G. columna during exposure to different PE-MP concentrations and reveal important coral-MP-microbiome interactions in coral reef ecosystems. Results demonstrated that the coral-MPs interactions should be further evaluated to gain a deeper understanding of the underlying ecotoxicological risks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Mao Hung
- Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Chin-Pao Huang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, USA
| | - Shu-Ling Hsieh
- Department of Seafood Science, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Ting Chen
- Department of Seafood Science, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - De-Sing Ding
- Department and Graduate Institute of Aquaculture, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Shuchen Hsieh
- Department of Chemistry, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Chiu-Wen Chen
- Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.
| | - Cheng-Di Dong
- Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Chinomso Iroegbu A, Ray SS. Lignin and Keratin-Based Materials in Transient Devices and Disposables: Recent Advances Toward Materials and Environmental Sustainability. ACS OMEGA 2022; 7:10854-10863. [PMID: 35415330 PMCID: PMC8991899 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c07372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Rising concerns and the associated negative implications of pollution from e-waste and delayed decomposition and mineralization of component materials (e.g., plastics) are significant environmental challenges. Hence, concerted pursuit of accurate and efficient control of the life cycle of materials and subsequent dematerialization in target environments has become essential in recent times. The emerging field of transient technology will play a significant role in this regard to help overcome current environmental challenges by enabling the use of novel approaches and new materials with unique functionalities to produce devices and materials such as disposable diagnostic devices, flexible solar panels, and foldable displays that are more ecologically benign, low-cost, and sustainable. The prerequisites for materials employed in transient devices and disposables include biodegradability, biocompatibility, and the inherent ability to mineralize or dissipate in target environments (e.g., body fluids) in a short lifetime with net-zero impact. Biomaterials such as lignin and keratin are well-known to be among the most promising environmentally benign, functional, sustainable, and industrially applicable resources for transient devices and disposables. Consequently, considering the current environmental concerns, this work focuses on the advances in applying lignin and keratin-based materials in short-life electronics and single-use consumables, current limitations, future research outlook toward materials, and environmental sustainability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Austine
Ofondu Chinomso Iroegbu
- Department
of Chemical Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein 2028, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Centre
for Nanostructures and Advanced Materials, DSI-CSIR Nanotechnology Innovation Centre, Council for Scientific
& Industrial Research, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Suprakas Sinha Ray
- Department
of Chemical Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein 2028, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Centre
for Nanostructures and Advanced Materials, DSI-CSIR Nanotechnology Innovation Centre, Council for Scientific
& Industrial Research, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
- ,
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Hankins C, Raimondo S, Lasseigne D. Microplastic ingestion by coral as a function of the interaction between calyx and microplastic size. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 810:152333. [PMID: 34910947 PMCID: PMC8788577 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.152333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Coral reefs have been heavily impacted by anthropogenic stressors, such as global warming, ocean acidification, sedimentation, and nutrients. Recently, microplastics (MP) have emerged as another potential stressor that may also cause adverse impacts to coral. MP ingestion by scleractinian coral among four species, Acropora cervicornis, Montastraea cavernosa, Orbicella faveolata, and Pseudodiploria clivosa, was used to identify the relationship between calyx and MP size as it pertains to active coral ingestion. A range of MP sizes (0.231-2.60 mm) were offered to the coral species across a wide range of calyx sizes (1.33-4.84 mm). Laboratory data showed that as the mean calyx size increased, so too did the mean percent of ingestion with increasing MP size. From laboratory data, a logistic model was developed to extrapolate the range of MP sizes that can be actively ingested by coral species based on calyx size. The data and model presented here offer the first predictive approach that can be used to determine the range of MP sizes that have a high likelihood of being actively ingested by coral of various sizes, thus offering insight to possible impacts on scleractinian coral.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl Hankins
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Measurement & Modeling, Gulf Ecosystem Measurement & Modeling Division, 1 Sabine Island Drive, Gulf Breeze, FL 32561, USA.
| | - Sandy Raimondo
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Measurement & Modeling, Gulf Ecosystem Measurement & Modeling Division, 1 Sabine Island Drive, Gulf Breeze, FL 32561, USA
| | - Danielle Lasseigne
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Measurement & Modeling, Gulf Ecosystem Measurement & Modeling Division, 1 Sabine Island Drive, Gulf Breeze, FL 32561, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Microplastics: impacts on corals and other reef organisms. Emerg Top Life Sci 2022; 6:81-93. [PMID: 35137913 PMCID: PMC9023018 DOI: 10.1042/etls20210236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Plastic pollution in a growing problem globally. In addition to the continuous flow of plastic particles to the environment from direct sources, and through the natural wear and tear of items, the plastics that are already there have the potential to breakdown further and therefore provide an immense source of plastic particles. With the continued rise in levels of plastic production, and consequently increasing levels entering our marine environments it is imperative that we understand its impacts. There is evidence microplastic and nanoplastic (MNP) pose a serious threat to all the world's marine ecosystems and biota, across all taxa and trophic levels, having individual- to ecosystem-level impacts, although these impacts are not fully understood. Microplastics (MPs; 0.1–5 mm) have been consistently found associated with the biota, water and sediments of all coral reefs studied, but due to limitations in the current techniques, a knowledge gap exists for the level of nanoplastic (NP; <1 µm). This is of particular concern as it is this size fraction that is thought to pose the greatest risk due to their ability to translocate into different organs and across cell membranes. Furthermore, few studies have examined the interactions of MNP exposure and other anthropogenic stressors such as ocean acidification and rising temperature. To support the decision-making required to protect these ecosystems, an advancement in standardised methods for the assessment of both MP and NPs is essential. This knowledge, and that of predicted levels can then be used to determine potential impacts more accurately.
Collapse
|
21
|
Chen CY, Lu TH, Liao CM. Integrated toxicokinetic/toxicodynamic assessment modeling reveals at-risk scleractinian corals under extensive microplastics impacts. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 806:150964. [PMID: 34656596 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.150964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Marine microplastics (MPs)-induced threats to shallow-water scleractinian corals are a growing global concern that needs interdisciplinary studies. However, it remains uncertain to what extent the ecotoxicological effects of MPs can explain the potential health impacts on corals at the species-specific scale. Using recent datasets of multiple MPs-induced impacts on coral species, we developed an integrated ecotoxicological modeling approach to quantify the MPs-corals interaction dynamics. Toxicokinetic (TK)-based corals ingestion, egestion, and adhesion processes posed by MPs were comprehensively evaluated. Based on estimated uptake and egestion rates, we showed that corals were much likely to bioaccumulate marine MPs. We applied toxicodynamic (TD) models to appraise time- and concentration-dependent response patterns across MPs-corals systems. We found that marine MPs are highly toxic to corals with a median benchmark concentration causing 10% compromised coral health of 20-40 mg L-1 and a mean growth inhibition rate of ~2% d-1. By providing these key quantitative metrics that may inform scientists to refine existing management strategies to better understand the long-term impact of MPs on coral reef ecosystems. Our TK/TD modeling scheme can help integrating current toxicological findings to encompass a more mechanistic-, ecological-, and process-based understanding of diverse coral ecosystems that are sensitive to MPs stressor varied considerably by species and taxonomic group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Yun Chen
- Department of Bioenvironmental Systems Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Tien-Hsuan Lu
- Department of Bioenvironmental Systems Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chung-Min Liao
- Department of Bioenvironmental Systems Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan, ROC.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Bejarano S, Diemel V, Feuring A, Ghilardi M, Harder T. No short-term effect of sinking microplastics on heterotrophy or sediment clearing in the tropical coral Stylophora pistillata. Sci Rep 2022; 12:1468. [PMID: 35087129 PMCID: PMC8795188 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-05420-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Investigations of encounters between corals and microplastics have, to date, used particle concentrations that are several orders of magnitude above environmentally relevant levels. Here we investigate whether concentrations closer to values reported in tropical coral reefs affect sediment shedding and heterotrophy in reef-building corals. We show that single-pulse microplastic deposition elicits significantly more coral polyp retraction than comparable amounts of calcareous sediments. When deposited separately from sediments, microplastics remain longer on corals than sediments, through stronger adhesion and longer periods of examination by the coral polyps. Contamination of sediments with microplastics does not retard corals' sediment clearing rates. Rather, sediments speed-up microplastic shedding, possibly affecting its electrostatic behaviour. Heterotrophy rates are three times higher than microplastic ingestion rates when corals encounter microzooplankton (Artemia salina cysts) and microplastics separately. Exposed to cysts-microplastic combinations, corals feed preferentially on cysts regardless of microplastic concentration. Chronic-exposure experiments should test whether our conclusions hold true under environmental conditions typical of inshore marginal coral reefs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Bejarano
- Reef Systems Research Group, Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT), Fahrenheitstraße 6, 28359, Bremen, Germany.
| | - Valeska Diemel
- Reef Systems Research Group, Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT), Fahrenheitstraße 6, 28359, Bremen, Germany
- Department of Marine Ecology, Faculty of Biology and Chemistry, University of Bremen, Leobener Straße 6, 28359, Bremen, Germany
- Bund Für Umwelt Und Naturschutz (BUND) E.V., Am Dobben 44, 28203, Bremen, Germany
| | - Anna Feuring
- Reef Systems Research Group, Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT), Fahrenheitstraße 6, 28359, Bremen, Germany
- Department of Marine Ecology, Faculty of Biology and Chemistry, University of Bremen, Leobener Straße 6, 28359, Bremen, Germany
- Biological Oceanography Department, Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde, Seestraße 15, D-18119, Rostock, Germany
| | - Mattia Ghilardi
- Reef Systems Research Group, Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT), Fahrenheitstraße 6, 28359, Bremen, Germany
- Department of Marine Ecology, Faculty of Biology and Chemistry, University of Bremen, Leobener Straße 6, 28359, Bremen, Germany
| | - Tilmann Harder
- Department of Marine Ecology, Faculty of Biology and Chemistry, University of Bremen, Leobener Straße 6, 28359, Bremen, Germany
- Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, 27570, Bremerhaven, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
John J, Nandhini AR, Velayudhaperumal Chellam P, Sillanpää M. Microplastics in mangroves and coral reef ecosystems: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2022; 20:397-416. [PMID: 34642583 PMCID: PMC8495182 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-021-01326-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution has recently been identified as a major issue for the health of ecosystems. Microplastics have typically sizes of less than 5 mm and occur in various forms, such as pellets, fibres, fragments, films, and granules. Mangroves and coral reefs are sensitive and restricted ecosystems that provide free ecological services such as coastal protection, maintaining natural cycles, hotspots of biodiversity and economically valuable goods. However, urbanization and industrial activities have started contaminating even these preserved ecosystems. Here we review sources, occurrence, and toxicity of microplastics in the trophic levels of mangrove and coral reef ecosystems. We present detection methods, such as microscopic identification and spectroscopy. We discuss mitigating measures that prevent the entry of microplastics into the marine environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juliana John
- Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Tiruchchirappalli, India
| | - A R Nandhini
- Environmental Science and Technology, Anna University, Chennai, India
| | | | - Mika Sillanpää
- Chemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451 Saudi Arabia
- Faculty of Science and Technology, School of Applied Physics, University Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor Malaysia
- International Research Centre of Nanotechnology for Himalayan Sustainability (IRCNHS), Shoolini University, Solan, Himachal Pradesh 173212 India
- School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering, University of the Witwatersrand, 2050 Johannesburg, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Reichert J, Tirpitz V, Anand R, Bach K, Knopp J, Schubert P, Wilke T, Ziegler M. Interactive effects of microplastic pollution and heat stress on reef-building corals. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 290:118010. [PMID: 34488160 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.118010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is an emerging stressor that increases pressure on ecosystems such as coral reefs that are already challenged by climate change. However, the effects of plastic pollution in combination with global warming are largely unknown. Thus, the goal of this study was to determine the cumulative effects of microplastic pollution with that of global warming on reef-building coral species and to compare the severity of both stressors. For this, we conducted a series of three controlled laboratory experiments and exposed a broad range of coral species (Acropora muricata, Montipora digitata, Porites lutea, Pocillopora verrucosa, and Stylophora pistillata) to microplastic particles in a range of concentrations (2.5-2500 particles L-1) and mixtures (from different industrial sectors) at ambient temperatures and in combination with heat stress. We show that microplastic can occasionally have both aggravating or mitigating effects on the corals' thermal tolerance. In comparison to heat stress, however, microplastic constitutes a minor stressor. While heat stress led to decreased photosynthetic efficiency of algal symbionts, and increased bleaching, tissue necrosis, and mortality, treatment with microplastic particles had only minor effects on the physiology and health of the tested coral species at ambient temperatures. These findings underline that while efforts to reduce plastic pollution should continue, they should not replace more urgent efforts to halt global warming, which are immediately needed to preserve remaining coral reef ecosystems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Reichert
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Vanessa Tirpitz
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Rajshree Anand
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Katharina Bach
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Jonas Knopp
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Patrick Schubert
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Thomas Wilke
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Maren Ziegler
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Reality Check: Experimental Studies on Microplastics Lack Realism. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/app11188529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Environmental microplastics are gaining interest due to their ubiquity and the threat they pose to environmental and human health. Critical studies have revealed the abundance of microplastics in nature, while others have tested the impacts of these small plastics on organismal health in the laboratory. Yet, there is often a mismatch between these two areas of research, resulting in major discrepancies and an inability to interpret certain findings. Here, we focus on several main lines of inquiry. First, even though the majority of environmental microplastics are plastic microfibers from textiles, laboratory studies still largely use spherical microbeads. There are also inconsistencies between the measurements of microplastics in the environment as compared to the concentrations that tend to be used in experimental studies. Likewise, the period of exposure occurring in experimental studies and in the environment are vastly different. Lastly, although experimental studies often focus on a particular subset of toxic chemicals present on microplastics, textile microfibers carry other dyes and chemicals that are understudied. They also cause types of physical damage not associated with microspheres. This review will analyze the literature pertaining to these mismatches, focusing on aquatic organisms and model systems, and seek to inform a path forward for this burgeoning area of research.
Collapse
|
26
|
Sun T, Zhan J, Li F, Ji C, Wu H. Evidence-based meta-analysis of the genotoxicity induced by microplastics in aquatic organisms at environmentally relevant concentrations. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 783:147076. [PMID: 34088154 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) attract global concern due to their ubiquitous existence in aquatic environments. However, the genotoxic effect of MPs on aquatic organisms in the natural environment remains controversial. Therefore, this meta-analysis was conducted by recompiling 44 individual studies from 12 publications to determine whether MPs could induce genotoxicity in aquatic organisms at environmentally relevant concentrations (≤1 mg/L, median = 0.5 mg/L). Multiple genotoxic endpoints were involved, including the percentage of DNA in tail (TDNA%), tail length (TL), olive tail moment (OTM), and the number of micronuclei (NM), and their increases represented the biologically adverse effects (i.e. genotoxicity). The results showed that all included endpoints tended to increase after exposure to MPs, among which TDNA%, TL and NM were significantly increased by 20%, 32% and 81% compared with the control group, respectively. The overall estimate of all endpoints in the MPs-treated groups was remarkably increased by 24%, with high statistical power and no obvious publication bias, suggesting the evident genotoxicity caused by MPs. In addition, the magnitudes of MPs-induced genotoxicity were independent of selected endpoint, MP composition, morphology, exposure concentration and duration, but closely correlated with particle size, living habitat and tested species. Overall, this work provided a reference for the health risk assessment of MPs in the natural environment, contributing to our understanding the action mode of MPs at environmentally relevant concentrations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tao Sun
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shandong Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes, YICCAS, Yantai 264003, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Junfei Zhan
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shandong Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes, YICCAS, Yantai 264003, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Fei Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shandong Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes, YICCAS, Yantai 264003, PR China; Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Qingdao 266071, PR China
| | - Chenglong Ji
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shandong Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes, YICCAS, Yantai 264003, PR China; Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266237, PR China; Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Qingdao 266071, PR China
| | - Huifeng Wu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shandong Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes, YICCAS, Yantai 264003, PR China; Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266237, PR China; Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Qingdao 266071, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Xiao B, Li D, Liao B, Zheng H, Yang X, Xie Y, Xie Z, Li C. Effects of Microplastics Exposure on the Acropora sp. Antioxidant, Immunization and Energy Metabolism Enzyme Activities. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:666100. [PMID: 34149652 PMCID: PMC8213336 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.666100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Microplastic pollution in marine environments has increased rapidly in recent years, with negative influences on the health of marine organisms. Scleractinian coral, one of the most important species in the coral ecosystems, is highly sensitive to microplastic. However, whether microplastic causes physiological disruption of the coral, via oxidative stress, immunity, and energy metabolism, is unclear. In the present study, the physiological responses of the coral Acropora sp. were determined after exposure to polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyamide 66 (PA66), and polyethylene (PE) microplastic for 96 h. The results showed that there were approximately 4-22 items/nubbin on the surface of the coral skeleton and 2-10 items/nubbin on the inside of the skeleton in the MPs exposure groups. The density of endosymbiont decreased (1.12 × 105-1.24 × 105 cell/cm2) in MPs exposure groups compared with the control group. Meanwhile, the chlorophyll content was reduced (0.11-0.76 μg/cm2) after MPs exposure. Further analysis revealed that the antioxidant enzymes in coral tissues were up-regulated (Total antioxidant capacity T-AOC 2.35 × 10-3-1.05 × 10-2 mmol/mg prot, Total superoxide dismutase T-SOD 3.71-28.67 U/mg prot, glutathione GSH 10.21-10.51 U/mg prot). The alkaline phosphatase (AKP) was inhibited (1.44-4.29 U/mg prot), while nitric oxide (NO) increased (0.69-2.26 μmol/g prot) for cell signal. Moreover, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was down-regulated in the whole experiment period (0.19-0.22 U/mg prot), and Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) for cell the phosphate pentoses pathway was also reduced (0.01-0.04 U/mg port). Results showed that the endosymbiont was released and chlorophyll was decreased. In addition, a disruption could occur under MPs exposure, which was related to anti-oxidant, immune, and energy metabolism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Baohua Xiao
- Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Dongdong Li
- Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Baolin Liao
- Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Huina Zheng
- Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaodong Yang
- Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yongqi Xie
- Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ziqiang Xie
- Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chengyong Li
- Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, China
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| |
Collapse
|