1
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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.
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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
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2
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Abeysinghe KMSN, Guruge KPGKP, Bandara T, Kumara PBTP. Microplastic pollution status in the coral reef ecosystems on the Southern and Western coasts of Sri Lanka during the Southwest monsoon. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 206:116713. [PMID: 39002216 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
We investigated the microplastics (MP) abundance, characteristics and pollution severity in the six coral reef ecosystems along the southern and western coasts of Sri Lanka during the southwest monsoon. The small blue-coloured fibres dominated within coral reefs and reef environments. The average coral, surface water and surface sediment MP concentration were 806.64 ± 93.72 particles kg-1ww, 23.42 ± 5.01 particles m-3, and 54.11 ± 8.04 particles kg-1dw, respectively. Coral MP concentration was significantly correlated with surface water (r = 0.65) and surface sediments (r = 0.59) indicating that the reef environment was the source of coral MP enrichment. Coral MP concentration was spatially different (p < 0.05) which may likely be due to the changes in winds, waves, coral biology and plastic sources. MP Pollution Load Index indicated that low MP contamination hazard. Since the presence of MP often deteriorates coral's health, further investigations are necessary to understand the MP's effects on the health of coral reef ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- K M S N Abeysinghe
- Department of Oceanography and Marine Geology, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences & Technology, University of Ruhuna, Matara 81000, Sri Lanka
| | - K P G K P Guruge
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Animal Science and Export Agriculture, Uva Wellassa University, Passara Road, Badulla 90000, Sri Lanka.
| | - Tharindu Bandara
- Department of Ecology and Environmental Science, Umeå University, Umeå 90187, Sweden
| | - P B T P Kumara
- Department of Oceanography and Marine Geology, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences & Technology, University of Ruhuna, Matara 81000, Sri Lanka
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3
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Choudhury TR, Riad S, Uddin FJ, Maksud MA, Alam MA, Chowdhury AMS, Mubin AN, Islam ARMT, Malafaia G. Microplastics in multi-environmental compartments: Research advances, media, and global management scenarios. JOURNAL OF CONTAMINANT HYDROLOGY 2024; 265:104379. [PMID: 38851130 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconhyd.2024.104379] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
During the past decades, microplastics (MPs) have become an emerging concern due to their persistence and potential environmental threat. MP pollution has become so drastic that it has been found in the human food chain, breast milk, polar regions, and even the Himalayan basin, lake, etc. Inflammation, pulmonary hypertension, vascular occlusions, increased coagulability and blood cell cytotoxicity, disruption of immune function, neurotoxicity, and neurodegenerative diseases can all be brought on by severe microplastic exposure. Although many MPs studies have been performed on single environmental compartments, MPs in multi-environmental compartments have yet to be explored fully. This review aims to summarize the muti-environmental media, detection tools, and global management scenarios of MPs. The study revealed that MPs could significantly alter C flow through the soil-plant system, the structure and metabolic status of the microbial community, soil pH value, biomass of plant shoots and roots, chlorophyll, leaf C and N contents, and root N contents. This review reveals that MPs may negatively affect many C-dependent soil functions. Different methods have been developed to detect the MPs from these various environmental sources, including microscopic observation, density separation, Raman, and FT-IR analysis. Several articles have focused on MPs in individual environmental sources with a developed evaluation technique. This review revealed the extensive impacts of MPs on soil-plant systems, microbial communities, and soil functions, especially on water, suggesting possible disturbances to vital ecological processes. Furthermore, the broad range of detection methods explored emphasizes the significance of reliable analytical techniques in precisely evaluating levels of MP contamination in various environmental media. This paper critically discusses MPs' sources, occurrences, and global management scenarios in all possible environmental media and ecological health impacts. Future research opportunities and required sustainable strategies have also been suggested from Bangladesh and international perspectives based on challenges faced due to MP's pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tasrina Rabia Choudhury
- Analytical Chemistry Laboratory, Chemistry Division, Atomic Energy Center Dhaka, Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh.
| | - Syed Riad
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Foyez Jalal Uddin
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - M A Maksud
- Analytical Chemistry Laboratory, Chemistry Division, Atomic Energy Center Dhaka, Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - M Abbas Alam
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh; Bangladesh Accreditation Board, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | | | - Al-Nure Mubin
- 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.
| | - 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.
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4
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Liang T, Ho YW, Wang Q, Wang P, Sun S, Fang JKH, Liu X. Distribution and risk assessment of microplastics in water, sediment and brine shrimps in a remote salt lake on the Tibetan Plateau, China. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 476:134959. [PMID: 38925053 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are pervasive environmental contaminants that have infiltrated even the most remote ecosystems. Despite their widespread distribution, the transfer patterns and impacts of MPs in remote lakes remain poorly understood. This study aimed to address the knowledge gap regarding the pathways and consequences of MP pollution in these isolated environments. Focusing on Kyêbxang Co, a remote salt lake in Tibet, this study investigated the transfer patterns, sources and ecological impacts of MPs, providing insights into their mobility and fate in pristine ecosystems. Water, sediment and biota (brine shrimp) samples from Kyêbxang Co, collected during the summer of 2020, were analyzed using µ-Raman spectroscopy to determine MP abundances, polymer types and potential sources. Findings indicated significant MP contamination in all examined media, with concentrations highlighting the role of runoff in transporting MPs to remote locations. The majority of detected MPs were small fragments (<0.5 mm), constituting over 93 %, with polypropylene being the predominant polymer type. The presence of a halocline may slow the descent of MPs, potentially increasing the exposure and ingestion risk to brine shrimp. Despite the currently low ecological risk estimated for MPs, this study underscores the need for long-term monitoring and development of a comprehensive ecological risk assessment model for MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Liang
- College of Marine Life Sciences and Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Yuen-Wa Ho
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Qi Wang
- College of Marine Life Sciences and Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Pengfei Wang
- Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; Fisheries College, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Shichun Sun
- Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; Fisheries College, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - James Kar-Hei Fang
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China; Research Institute for Future Food, Research Institute for Land and Space, and Research Institute for Sustainable Urban Development, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China; State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China.
| | - Xiaoshou Liu
- College of Marine Life Sciences and Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China.
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5
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Yen LP, Yong CLX, Todd PA. The effect of coral colony morphology, coral surface condition, particle size, and seeding point on the trapping and deposition of microplastics. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 921:171077. [PMID: 38382597 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171077] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Coral reefs are increasingly identified as microplastic sinks. Understanding the trapping and deposition effects on microplastics among coral colonies of different morphologies can help identify which corals and coral reefs are at higher risk of microplastic exposure. Here, we used a current-generating saltwater flume to explore microplastic trapping and deposition among branching coral, Pocillopora acuta, colonies with contrasting morphologies (open and compact), together with varying coral surface conditions (live, dead, and waxed), microplastic sizes (400 to 500 μm and 900 to 1000 μm), and seeding points (above-colony and mid-colony). Results revealed that more microplastics were trapped by, and deposited nearer to, compact colonies compared to those with a more open morphology-likely due to differences in flow dynamics. More of the larger microplastics were trapped, as were those introduced at the mid seeding point, but coral surface condition had no significant effect. These findings add to the growing evidence that corals are effective at trapping and facilitating deposition of microplastics. Branching corals with compact structures are potentially at high risk of microplastic pollution impact. We posit that coral composition, i.e. the relative abundance of compact branching colonies, will affect microplastic accumulation in natural reef environments. SYNOPSIS: This study demonstrates the effects of coral morphology on microplastic trapping and deposition, providing mechanistic insights into the factors that contribute to coral reefs acting as microplastic sinks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Peng Yen
- Experimental Marine Ecology Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117558, Singapore
| | - Clara Lei Xin Yong
- Experimental Marine Ecology Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117558, Singapore
| | - Peter A Todd
- Experimental Marine Ecology Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117558, Singapore.
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Maurya AC, Bhattacharya A, Vij V, Khare SK. Deciphering the seasonal dynamics of microplastic morphotypes and associated co-contaminants along the northwest coast of India. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 354:141690. [PMID: 38484988 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141690] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
In the present study, the northwest coast of India, bordering the Arabian Sea, was selected to evaluate the microplastic (MP) abundance. This is the first study to emphasize the effects of different seasons on MP distribution. The collected MPs were dried, segregated, and evaluated based on their morphotype, size, color, and polymer type. A total of 1756.6, 7326.6, and 202 particles/kg of sand were estimated in the pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, respectively, with a dominance of polypropylene (PP) type of plastic in the pre-monsoon and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) in monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. HDPE and PP collected MPs during the monsoon season were further characterized for associated contaminants. Metal absorbance was detected using SEM-EDX mapping and ICP-MS. The presence of organic compounds (OCs) was analyzed using GC-MS. MPs exhibit distinct associations with metals, among which the HDPE pellet morphotype exhibits a higher range of metal adsorption. Total 61 different OCs were associated with MPs. The HDPE pellets contained the highest amounts of hydrophobic organic compounds. PP pellets were found to contain triglycerides, fatty aldehydes, and alkaloids, along with HOCs. Among morphotypes, pellet forms of MPs were found to adsorb more contaminants. These co-contaminants infiltrate the study area through sewage runoff and shoreline debris deposition, subsequently interacting with MPs. Furthermore, the MP diversity was studied by employing the MP diversity integrated index, which suggests that most of the MP diversity was observed in the pre-monsoon period. The pollution load index employed an MP risk assessment, which presented a low degree of MP contamination. In contrast, the polymer hazard index was calculated as 21650.3 in post-monsoon, placing the area under the extreme danger category. It is evident from the data that the types of MP is more important than their number. Thus, MP morphotypes have importance in the adsorption of co-contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankita C Maurya
- Enzyme and Microbial Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, New Delhi-11016, India
| | - Amrik Bhattacharya
- Enzyme and Microbial Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, New Delhi-11016, India
| | - Varun Vij
- Enzyme and Microbial Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, New Delhi-11016, India
| | - Sunil K Khare
- Enzyme and Microbial Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, New Delhi-11016, India.
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7
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Gao B, Wang Y, Long C, Long L, Yang F. Microplastics inhibit the growth of endosymbiotic Symbiodinium tridacnidorum by altering photosynthesis and bacterial community. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 346:123603. [PMID: 38373622 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123603] [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: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics, ubiquitous anthropogenic marine pollutants, represent potential threats to coral-Symbiodiniaceae relationships in global reef ecosystems. However, the mechanism underlying the impacts of polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) on Symbiodiniaceae remains poorly understood. In this study, the cytological, physiological, and microbial responses of Symbiodinium tridacnidorum, a representative Symbiodiniaceae species, to varying concentrations of PS-MPs (0, 5, 50, 100, and 200 mg L-1) were investigated. The results revealed that microplastic exposure inhibited cell division, resulting in reduced cell density compared to control group. Furthermore, algal photosynthetic activity, as indicated by chlorophyll content, Fv/Fm, and net photosynthetic rate, declined with increasing microplastic concentration up to 50 mg L-1. Notably, elevated levels of microplastics (100 and 200 mg L-1) prompted a significant increase in cell size in S. tridacnidorum. Transmission electron microscopy and fluorescence microscopy indicated that hetero-aggregation was formed between high levels of PS-MPs and algal cells, ultimately causing damage to S. tridacnidorum. Moreover, the impact of PS-MPs exposure on the bacterial community associated with S. tridacnidorum was investigated. The results showed a reduction in alpha diversity of the bacterial community in groups exposed to 50, 100, and 200 mg L-1 of microplastics compared to those treated with 0 and 5 mg L-1. Additionally, the relative abundance of Marinobacter, Marivita, and Filomicrobium significantly increased, while Algiphilus and norank Nannocystaceae declined after microplastic exposure. These findings suggest that MPs can inhibit the growth of S. tridacnidorum and alter the associated bacterial community, posing a potential serious threat to coral symbiosis involving S. tridacnidorum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bohai Gao
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510301, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, PR China
| | - Yuqing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510301, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, PR China
| | - Chao Long
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510301, PR China
| | - Lijuan Long
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510301, PR China; Guangdong Provincial Observation and Research Station for Coastal Upwelling Ecosystem, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shantou, 515041, PR China
| | - Fangfang Yang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510301, PR China.
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Zhou Z, Tang J, Tang K, An M, Liu Z, Wu Z, Cao X, He C. Selective enrichment of bacteria and antibiotic resistance genes in microplastic biofilms and their potential hazards in coral reef ecosystems. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 352:141309. [PMID: 38281603 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141309] [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: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics become hotspots for bacteria to trigger a series of ecological effects, but few studies have focused on the potential impacts of microplastic biofilms in coral reef ecosystems. Here, we measured the bacterial communities and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in the seawater and microplastic biofilms. Results showed that microbial biofilms were formed on the surface of microplastics. The alpha diversity of the bacterial community in the microplastic biofilms was lower than that in the seawater, and the bacterial communities were distinct between the two. Further analysis revealed that several bacteria in the microplastic biofilms carried ARGs, and the proportion of which was correlated to the concentration of antibiotics in the seawater. Specifically, Vibrio was positively correlated to sul1 in the microplastic biofilms under higher concentrations of sulfonamides. Pathway analysis reflected significant overrepresentation of human disease related pathways in the bacterial community of microplastic biofilms. These results suggest that the microplastic biofilms could selectively enrich bacteria from the reef environments, causing the development of ARGs under antibiotic driving. This may pose a serious threat to coral reef ecosystems and human health. Our study provides new insights into the ecological impacts of microplastic biofilms in coral reef ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China.
| | - Jia Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Kai Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Mingxun An
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Zhaoqun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Zhongjie Wu
- Hainan Academy of Ocean and Fisheries Sciences, Haikou 571126, China.
| | - Xiaocong Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; Hainan Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Haikou 571126, China
| | - Chunlong He
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
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Ragesh S, Abdul Jaleel KU, Nikki R, Abdul Razaque MA, Muhamed Ashraf P, Ravikumar CN, Abdulaziz A, Dinesh Kumar PK. Environmental and ecological risk of microplastics in the surface waters and gastrointestinal tract of skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis) around the Lakshadweep Islands, India. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:22715-22735. [PMID: 38411916 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-32564-y] [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: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
The presence of microplastics (MPs) in marine ecosystems is widespread and extensive. They have even reached the deepest parts of the ocean and polar regions. The number of articles on plastic pollution has increased in recent years, but few have investigated the MPs from oceanic islands which are biodiversity hotspots. We investigated the possible microplastic contamination their source and characteristics in surface waters off Kavaratti Island and in the gastrointestinal tract (GT) of skipjack tuna, Katsuwonus pelamis collected from Kavaratti Island of the Lakshadweep archipelago. A total of 424 MP particles were isolated from the surface water samples collected from off Kavaratti Island with an average abundance of 5 ± 1nos./L. A total of 117 MPs were recovered from the GT of skipjack tuna from 30 individual fishes. This points to a potential threat of MP contamination in seafood around the world since this species has a high value in local and international markets. Fiber and blue color were the most common microplastic morphotypes and colors encountered, respectively, both from surface water and GT of fish. Smaller MPs (0.01-1 mm) made up a greater portion of the recovered materials, and most of them were secondary MPs. Polyethylene and polypropylene were the most abundant polymers found in this study. The Pollution Load Index (1.3 ± 0.21) of the surface water and skipjack tuna (1 ± 0.7) indicates a minor ecological risk for the coral islands, while the Polymer Hazard Index highlights the ecological risk of polymers, even at low MP concentrations. This pioneer study sheds preliminary light on the abundance, properties, and environmental risks of MPs to this highly biodiverse ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saraswathi Ragesh
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Regional Centre, Kochi, 682018, Kerala, India
| | | | - Ramachandran Nikki
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Regional Centre, Kochi, 682018, Kerala, India
- Department of Marine Biology, Microbiology and Biochemistry, School of Marine Sciences, Cochin University of Science & Technology (CUSAT), Cochin, 682016, Kerala, India
| | - Mannayath Abdulazeez Abdul Razaque
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Regional Centre, Kochi, 682018, Kerala, India
- Department of Marine Biology, Microbiology and Biochemistry, School of Marine Sciences, Cochin University of Science & Technology (CUSAT), Cochin, 682016, Kerala, India
| | | | | | - Anas Abdulaziz
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Regional Centre, Kochi, 682018, Kerala, India
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10
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Praved PH, Neethu KV, Nandan SB, Sankar ND, Aravind EH, Sebastian S, Marigoudar SR, Sharma KV. Evaluation of microplastic pollution and risk assessment in a tropical monsoonal estuary, with special emphasis on contamination in jellyfish. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 343:123158. [PMID: 38123117 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.123158] [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: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Estuaries, which serve as vital links between land and coastal ecosystems, play a significant part in facilitating the transfer of plastic waste from the land to the ocean. In this research, we examined the prevalence, characteristics, and ecological risks of microplastics (MPs) in the extensively urbanized Cochin Estuarine System (CES), India. Additionally, it represents one of the initial evidence-based examinations of MPs ingestion by jellyfish in Indian waters, focusing on Acromitus flagellatus, Blackfordia virginica, and Pleurobrachia pileus species. The abundance of MPs found in the surface water of the Cochin Estuarine System (CES) varied between 14.44 ± 9 to 30 ± 15.94 MP/m3, with an average of 21.6 ± 11 MP/m3. In both surface waters and jellyfish from the Cochin Estuarine System (CES), fibers were the most prevalent type of MPs, with polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyamide (PA) being the most common polymer varieties. To evaluate the current levels of MPs and their effect on the CES, the Pollution Load Index (PLI), Potential Ecological Risk Index (PERI), and Polymeric Risk Index (H) were utilized. The high PLIestuary values (20.33), high Hestuary values (234.02), and extreme PERIestuary value (1646.06) indicate that the CES is facing an extreme ecological risk. Among the 280 jellyfish individuals examined, 118 (42.14%) were recognized to contain MPs with an average of 1.54 ± 2.68 MPs/individual. Pearson bivariate analysis revealed a significant correlation between the jellyfish bell size and number of plastics per individual. Comparison between jellyfish species revealed, the majority (66%) of the MPs identified in jellyfish were from A. flagellatus and 44 among the 50 jellyfish examined (88%) had MPs. These findings suggest that A. flagellatus may be a potential sink for MPs and may be utilized to be a bioindicator for monitoring MPs contamination in estuarine systems, aiding in future plastic pollution mitigation efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Hari Praved
- Department of Marine Biology, Microbiology & Biochemistry, School of Marine Sciences, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Cochin, 682016, Kerala, India.
| | - K V Neethu
- Department of Marine Biology, Microbiology & Biochemistry, School of Marine Sciences, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Cochin, 682016, Kerala, India.
| | - S Bijoy Nandan
- Department of Marine Biology, Microbiology & Biochemistry, School of Marine Sciences, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Cochin, 682016, Kerala, India.
| | - N Deepak Sankar
- Department of Marine Biology, Microbiology & Biochemistry, School of Marine Sciences, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Cochin, 682016, Kerala, India.
| | - E H Aravind
- Department of Marine Biology, Microbiology & Biochemistry, School of Marine Sciences, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Cochin, 682016, Kerala, India.
| | - Sruthy Sebastian
- Department of Marine Biology, Microbiology & Biochemistry, School of Marine Sciences, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Cochin, 682016, Kerala, India.
| | - S R Marigoudar
- National Centre for Coastal Research, NIOT Campus, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Govt. of India, Pallikaranai, Chennai, 600100, India.
| | - K V Sharma
- National Centre for Coastal Research, NIOT Campus, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Govt. of India, Pallikaranai, Chennai, 600100, India.
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11
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Pastorino P. Sunscreens and micro(nano)plastics: Are we aware of these threats to the Egyptian coral reefs? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 910:168587. [PMID: 37984652 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168587] [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: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
During a snorkeling trip to Marsa Alam and Hamata (southern Red Sea Riviera, Egypt) I explored the coral reefs and the diverse marine habitats of fish and invertebrate species. The area invites recreational diving and snorkeling, but the beaches are littered with all sorts of solid waste (mainly fragmented plastics). Also, there are no local restrictions on sunscreen use. The development of tourism to the area raises questions about the environmental impact and how its further growth will have on coral reefs. Every year, 1.2 million tourists visit the Red Sea coast (about 3287 tourists per day) and release about 1.7 tons/month of sunscreen into the Red Sea. As an ecologist and editorial board member of Science of the Total Environment, I ask myself how we as scientists can increase public awareness and call for prompt actions to protect the coral reefs. The discussion underlines two major threats to the Egyptian coral reefs: sunscreen use and micro(nano)plastics waste. The discussion closes with possible solutions, future perspectives, and recommendations to protect the coral reefs ecosystem of the Egyptian Red Sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Pastorino
- The Veterinary Medical Research Institute for Piemonte, Liguria and Valle d'Aosta, via Bologna 148, 10154 Torino, Italy.
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12
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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.
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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.
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13
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Lincoln S, Chowdhury P, Posen PE, Robin RS, Ramachandran P, Ajith N, Harrod O, Hoehn D, Harrod R, Townhill BL. Interaction of climate change and marine pollution in Southern India: Implications for coastal zone management practices and policies. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 902:166061. [PMID: 37543339 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
Climate change and marine litter are inextricably linked, and their interaction manifests differently depending on the specific environmental and biological characteristics, and other human activities taking place. The negative impacts resulting from those synergistic interactions are threatening coastal and marine ecosystems and the many goods and services they provide. This is particularly pervasive in the coastal zone of the Indian subcontinent. India is already experiencing severe climate change impacts, which are projected to worsen in the future. At the same time, the country is gripped by a litter crisis that is overwhelming authorities and communities and hindering the country's sustainable development goals. The coastal environment and communities of the southern states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. While these state governments and authorities are stepping up efforts to improve the management of their coastal zones, the scale and severity of these issues are mounting. Here we review the combined effects of climate change and marine litter pollution in Southern India, focusing on the Gulf of Mannar Reserve in Tamil Nadu and the Malabar Coast in Kerala. Finally, we discuss effective management options that could help improve resilience and sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana Lincoln
- International Marine Climate Change Centre, The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Cefas Laboratory, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 0HT, United Kingdom.
| | - Piyali Chowdhury
- International Marine Climate Change Centre, The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Cefas Laboratory, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 0HT, United Kingdom
| | - Paulette E Posen
- International Marine Climate Change Centre, The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Cefas Laboratory, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 0HT, United Kingdom
| | - R S Robin
- National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Chennai 600 025, India
| | - Purvaja Ramachandran
- National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Chennai 600 025, India
| | - Nithin Ajith
- National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Chennai 600 025, India
| | - Olivia Harrod
- International Marine Climate Change Centre, The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Cefas Laboratory, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 0HT, United Kingdom
| | - Danja Hoehn
- International Marine Climate Change Centre, The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Cefas Laboratory, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 0HT, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Harrod
- International Marine Climate Change Centre, The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Cefas Laboratory, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 0HT, United Kingdom
| | - Bryony L Townhill
- International Marine Climate Change Centre, The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Cefas Laboratory, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 0HT, United Kingdom
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14
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Khedre AM, Ramadan SA, Ashry A, Alaraby M. Seasonal variations of microplastic in sediment, Chironomus sp. larvae, and chironomid tubes in two wastewater sites in Sohag Governorate, Egypt. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:125846-125865. [PMID: 38008829 PMCID: PMC10754750 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30855-4] [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: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) contamination is an acknowledged global problem that poses a severe risk to aquatic ecosystem biota. Nevertheless, little is known about their prevalence in animal construction. The main objective of our study was to reduce the gap information of seasonal abundance, distribution, composition, and risk assessment of MP contamination. The concentrations of MPs in sediment, Chironomus sp. larvae, and their tubes were found to be higher in site 2 (S2) than in site 1 (S1) during the four seasons of the year. However, MP concentrations ranged from 312 ± 64.7 to 470 ± 70 items/kg dry weight, 0.79 ± 0.16 to 1.1 ± 0.3 particles/individual, and 0.5 ± 0.04 to 0.9 ± 0.04 particles/tube in sediment, Chironomus, and chironomid tubes, respectively. Blue and red polyester fibers are the most dominant MPs which are distributed in sediment, Chironomus, and chironomid tubes. The length of the dominant fiber accumulates in Chironomus, and their tubes are highly varied compared to that of the substrate. Additionally, we found that the mean number of MPs/individual larvae in the fourth instar was significantly higher than that in the second instar. Risk indicators for the environment, polymer risk assessment, and pollution load were estimated, where they were higher in S2 than in S1 correlated to MPs abundance and polymer type. The seasonal fluctuation in MP concentration, characterization, and risk in the two sites could depend on the amount of sewage effluent discharged into the wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), which was reflected by Chironomus sp. larvae. Therefore, further research should be done to adopt the applicability of Chironomus as MP bioindicators in various freshwater environments throughout the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azza M Khedre
- Group of Entomology and Environmental Toxicology, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, Sohag, 82524, Egypt
| | - Somaia A Ramadan
- Group of Entomology and Environmental Toxicology, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, Sohag, 82524, Egypt
| | - Ali Ashry
- Group of Entomology and Environmental Toxicology, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, Sohag, 82524, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed Alaraby
- Group of Entomology and Environmental Toxicology, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, Sohag, 82524, Egypt
- Group of Mutagenesis, Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
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15
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Chen CF, Ju YR, Chen CW, Albarico FPJB, Lim YC, Ke C, Cheng YR, Dong CD. Microplastics in coral reef sediments underestimated? They may hide in biominerals. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 899:165708. [PMID: 37482351 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165708] [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: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) may be underestimated in coral reef sediments. Current pretreatments for determining MPs in the sediments are mainly density separation and organic matter removal, ignoring MPs that may be embedded or encrusted in biominerals. This could lead to discrepancies in assessing the potential risk of MPs contamination. To confirm whether MPs in coral reef sediments are underestimated, a two-step sequential digestion, including organic matter removal (H2O2 digestion) and biomineral removal (HCl digestion), was performed on sediments from the coral reef area of the South Penghu Marine National Park (SPMNP, Taiwan). The MPs abundance and characteristics of the two steps were analyzed separately. The results showed that the average MPs abundance after HCl digestion (78 ± 42 MPs/kg) was significantly higher than that of H2O2 digestion (38 ± 25 MPs/kg). The MPs diversity integrated index (MPDII) in coral reef sediments was low (MPDII = 0.35), and MPs were mainly small (<2.0 mm, 91.3 %), fibrous (93.5 %), colored (60.9 %), and rayon polymers (73.9 %). Correlation analysis showed that MPs in biominerals mainly dominated MPs in the sediments. These results confirm that current assessments of MPs contamination levels in biomineral-rich sediments may be underestimated and uncertain. In addition, the mineralization of organisms in SPMNP reef regions was affected by MPs from moderate to high levels, depending on the proportion of MPs in biominerals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Feng Chen
- Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City 81157, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Ru Ju
- Department of Safety, Health and Environmental Engineering, National United University, Miaoli 36063, Taiwan
| | - Chiu-Wen Chen
- Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City 81157, Taiwan
| | - Frank Paolo Jay B Albarico
- Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City 81157, Taiwan; Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City 81157, Taiwan; College of Fisheries and Allied Sciences, Northern Negros State College of Science and Technology, Sagay City 6122, Philippines
| | - Yee Cheng Lim
- Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City 81157, Taiwan
| | - Chongtai Ke
- Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City 81157, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Rong Cheng
- Department of Fisheries Production and Management, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City 81157, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Di Dong
- Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City 81157, Taiwan.
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16
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Yang X, Zhang Z, Zhang J. Study of soil microplastic pollution and influencing factors based on environmental fragility theory. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 899:165435. [PMID: 37442481 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Soil microplastics (MPs) pollution is a global concern, but the distribution of MPs and the factors affecting the distribution of MPs in different ecologically fragile karst areas remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated the spatial distribution, characteristics, and composition of MPs in different ecologically fragile karst areas of Guizhou Province and explored the relationship between ecosystem fragility and MPs. Structural equation models combined with robust random forest (RF) models were used to clarify the effects of karst soil properties on MPs and quantify their relative contributions. The abundance of soil MPs in ecologically fragile karst areas was 2949 item kg-1, and the risk of MPs contamination was highest in medium-fragile areas. The robust RF models precisely predicted the abundance of soil MPs in different fragile areas, and the mean root mean square error and R2 were 0.21 and 0.93, respectively. The contribution of karst soil properties to the abundance of MPs was estimated. Some soil chemical properties had a significant effect (p < 0.05) on MPs pollution in ecologically fragile karst areas. The results of our study suggest that the fragile ecological environment may exacerbate MPs pollution. Our study also contributes to establish a scientific theoretical foundation for the utilization of plastics and the prevention and control of microplastics pollution in karst ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuyuan Yang
- College of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Zhenming Zhang
- College of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China; Key Laboratory of Kast Georesources and Environment, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China; Guizhou Karst Environmental Ecosystems Observation and Research Station, Ministry of Education, Guiyang 550025, China.
| | - Jiachun Zhang
- Guizhou Botanical Garden, Guizhou Academy of Sciences, Guiyang 550004, Guizhou, China.
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17
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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.
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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
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18
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Jeyasanta KI, Jayanthi M, Laju RL, Patterson J, Bilgi DS, Sathish N, Edward JKP. Seasonal and spatial variations in the distribution pattern, sources and impacts of microplastics along different coastal zones of Tamil Nadu, India. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 192:115114. [PMID: 37276709 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
We investigated spatiotemporal variations of microplastics (MPs) in Coromandel Coast, Palk Bay, Gulf of Mannar, and West Coast of Tamil Nadu, India. MPs abundance varies from 37 ± 1.52 to 189 ± 9.02 items/kg in sediment and 23 ± 15.25 to 155.25 ± 4.16 items/L in water. Highest abundance in monsoon by riverine inflow transports plastic waste to the ocean. MPs sizes 0.5-1 mm are dominant in summer with 16 polymers, while 3-4 mm dominates the monsoon with 23 polymers. Carbonyl Index shows high MP oxidation (>0.31), unrelated to spatiotemporal changes. SEM-EDAX shows weathered MPs carrying hazardous metals. High MP diversity (MPDII = 0.77) of Coromandel Coast points to many sources of pollution and the need for immediate control measures. Pollution load values indicate low degree of MP pollution (<10), polymer hazard index shows level III (10-100) and IV (100-1000), and ecological risk assessment shows minor risks (<150) at present.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - M Jayanthi
- Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board, Government of Tamil Nadu, Chennai, India
| | - R L Laju
- Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Jamila Patterson
- Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Deepak S Bilgi
- Department of Environment and Climate Change, Government of Tamil Nadu, Chennai, India
| | - Narmatha Sathish
- Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, India
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19
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Long B, Li F, Wang K, Huang Y, Yang Y, Xie D. Impact of plastic film mulching on microplastic in farmland soils in Guangdong province, China. Heliyon 2023; 9:e16587. [PMID: 37292288 PMCID: PMC10245015 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Plastic mulch film is often believed to be a significant contributor to microplastic pollution in farmland soil, however, its direct impact in areas with high human activities remains unclear due to the presence of multiple pollution sources. This study aims to address this knowledge gap by investigating the impact of plastic film mulching on microplastic pollution in farmland soils in Guangdong province, China's largest economic province. The macroplastic residues in soils were investigated in 64 agricultural sites, and the microplastics were analyzed in typical plastic film mulched and nearby non-mulched farmland soils. The average concentration of macroplastic residues was 35.7 kg/ha and displayed a positive correlation with mulch film usage intensity. Contrarily, no significant correlation was found between macroplastic residues and microplastics, which exhibited an average abundance of 22,675 particles/kg soil. The pollution load index (PLI) model indicated that the microplastic pollution level was category I and comparatively higher in mulched farmland soils. Interestingly, polyethylene accounted for only 2.7% of the microplastics, while polyurethane was found to be the most abundant microplastic. According to the polymer hazard index (PHI) model, polyethylene posed a lower environmental risk than polyurethane in both mulched and non-mulched soils. These findings suggest that multiple sources other than plastic film mulching primarily contribute to microplastic pollution in farmland soils. This study enhances our understanding of microplastic sources and accumulation in farmland soils, offering crucial information on potential risks to the agroecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bibo Long
- Institute of Biological and Medical Engineering, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510316, China
- Guangdong Biomaterial Engineering Technology Research Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510316, China
| | - Fayong Li
- Institute of Biological and Medical Engineering, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510316, China
- Guangdong Biomaterial Engineering Technology Research Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510316, China
| | - Ke Wang
- Institute of Biological and Medical Engineering, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510316, China
- Guangdong Biomaterial Engineering Technology Research Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510316, China
| | - Yaozhu Huang
- Institute of Biological and Medical Engineering, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510316, China
| | - Youjun Yang
- Institute of Biological and Medical Engineering, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510316, China
- Guangdong Biomaterial Engineering Technology Research Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510316, China
| | - Dong Xie
- Institute of Biological and Medical Engineering, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510316, China
- Guangdong Biomaterial Engineering Technology Research Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510316, China
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20
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Li Q, Han Z, Su G, Hou M, Liu X, Zhao X, Hua Y, Shi B, Meng J, Wang M. New insights into the distribution, potential source and risk of microplastics in Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 175:107956. [PMID: 37178609 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.107956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) as emerging contaminants have become a major global concern, however, the distribution and origin of MPs in Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP) and their impacts on ecosystem are poorly known. Hence, we systematically evaluated the profile of MPs on the representative metropolitan locations of Lhasa and Huangshui Rivers and the scenic sites of Namco and Qinghai Lake. The average abundance of MPs in the water samples was 7020 items/m3, which was 34 and 52 times higher than those for the sediment (206.7 items/m3) and soil samples (134.7 items/m3), respectively. Huangshui River had the highest levels, followed by Qinghai Lake, Lhasa River and Namco. Human activities rather than altitude and salinity impacted the distribution of MPs in those areas. Besides the consumption of plastic products by locals and tourists, laundry wastewater and exogenous tributary inputs, the unique prayer flag culture also contributed to the MPs emission in QTP. Notably, the stability and fragment of MPs were crucial for their fate. Multiple assessment models were employed to evaluate the risk of MPs. PERI model took MP concentration, background value and toxicity into account, comprehensively describing the risk differences of each site. The large PVC proportion in Qinghai Lake posed the highest risk. Furthermore, concerns should be raised about PVC, PE and PET in Lhasa and Huangshui Rivers, and PC in Namco Lake. Risk quotient suggested that aged MPs in sediments slowly released biotoxic DEHP and should be cleaned up promptly. The findings offer baseline data of MPs in QTP and ecological risks, providing important support for the prioritization of future control measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Li
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology and Health Effects, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ziwei Han
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology and Health Effects, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Guijin Su
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology and Health Effects, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Meifang Hou
- School of Ecological Technology and Engineering, Shanghai Institute of Technology, Shanghai 201418, China
| | - Xihui Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology and Health Effects, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xu Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology and Health Effects, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yukang Hua
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology and Health Effects, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Bin Shi
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology and Health Effects, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jing Meng
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology and Health Effects, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Mengjing Wang
- School of Energy and Environment and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
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21
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Gurumoorthi K, Luis AJ. Recent trends on microplastics abundance and risk assessment in coastal Antarctica: Regional meta-analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 324:121385. [PMID: 36868550 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
We investigated sources, abundance and risk of microplastics (MPs) in water, sediments and biota around Antarctica. The concentration of MPs in Southern Ocean (SO) ranged from 0 to 0.56 items/m3 (mean = 0.01 items/m3) and 0-1.96 items/m3 (mean = 0.13 items/m3) in surface and sub-surface water. The distribution of fibers in water was 50%, sediments were 61%, and biota had 43%, which were followed by fragments in the water (42%), sediments (26%), and biota (28%). Shapes of film had lowest concentrations in water (2%), sediments 13%), and biota (3%). Ship traffic, drift of MPs by currents, and untreated waste water discharge contributed to the variety of MPs. The degree of pollution in all matrices was evaluated using the pollution load index (PLI), polymer hazard index (PHI), and potential ecological risk index (PERI). PLI at about 90.3% of locations were at category I followed by 5.9% at category II, 1.6% at category III, and 2.2% at category IV. Average PLI for water (3.14), sediments (6.6), and biota (2.72) had low pollution load (<10). Mean PHI for water, sediments, and biota showed hazards level V with a higher percentage of 84.6% (>1000) and 63.9% (PHI:0-1) in sediments and water, respectively. PERI for water showed 63.9% minor risk, and 36.1% extreme risk. Around 84.6% of sediments were at extreme risk, 7.7% faced minor risk, and 7.7% were at high risk. While 20% of marine organisms living in cold environments experienced minor risk, 20% were in high risk, and 60% were in extreme risk. Highest PERI was found in the water, sediments, and biota in Ross Sea, due to high hazardous polymer composition of polyvinylchloride (PVC) in the water and sediments due to human activity, particularly use of personnel care products and waste water discharge from research stations.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Gurumoorthi
- National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Headland Sada, Goa, 403 804, India
| | - Alvarinho J Luis
- National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Headland Sada, Goa, 403 804, India.
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22
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Sun R, Li T, Qiu S, Liu Y, Wu Z, Dai Z, Liao Y, Chen X, Chen S, Li C. Occurrence of antibiotic resistance genes carried by plastic waste from mangrove wetlands of the South China Sea. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 864:161111. [PMID: 36572308 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.161111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Plastic waste can carry organisms such as bacterial pathogens and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) over long distances. However, only few studies have been conducted on the occurrence of ARGs in plastic waste from mangrove wetlands. This study evaluated the distribution characteristics and ecological risks of plastic waste from mangroves in the coastal areas of the South China Sea. The correlation between anthropogenic activity levels and abundance of ARGs in mangroves was evaluated. Transparent and white were the common colors of plastic waste in mangroves. The main shapes of plastic waste were foam and film. The predominant types of plastic waste order were as follows: polyethylene (30.18 %) > polypropylene (27.51 %) > polystyrene (23.59 %). The living area (LA) mangroves had the highest polymer hazard and pollution load indices of 329.09 and 10.03, respectively. The abundance of ARGs (5.08 × 108 copies/g) on the plastic surface in LA mangroves was significantly higher than that of the other mangrove areas. Furthermore, there was a significant correlation between ARGs and intI1 on the plastic surface in mangroves. Correlation analysis between the ARGs and intI1 showed that most of the ARGs were correlated with intI1 except for msbA. In LA mangroves, sociometric and environmental factors showed significant correlations with the absolute abundances of the four ARGs and intI1, indicating that anthropogenic activities may lead to changes in the amount of ARGs on plastic surfaces. Furthermore, the ARG storage of plastic waste from different mangroves was as follows: protected areas (3.12 × 1017 copies) > living areas (2.99 × 1017 copies) > aquaculture pond areas (2.88 × 1017 copies). The higher ARG storage of LA mangroves, with the smallest area, greatly increased its ecological risk. The results of this study can provide basic data for processes that influence the distribution of plastic waste and ARGs in mangroves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruikun Sun
- School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Ting Li
- School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Shijie Qiu
- School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Yu Liu
- School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Zijie Wu
- School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Zhenqing Dai
- Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518114, China.
| | - Yuantao Liao
- Guangzhou Urban Planning & Design Survey Research Institute, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510030, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Guangzhou Urban Planning & Design Survey Research Institute, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510030, China
| | - Shuying Chen
- Guangzhou Urban Planning & Design Survey Research Institute, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510030, China
| | - Chengyong Li
- School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China; Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518114, China.
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23
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Zhou Z, Tang J, Cao X, Wu C, Cai W, Lin S. High Heterotrophic Plasticity of Massive Coral Porites pukoensis Contributes to Its Tolerance to Bioaccumulated Microplastics. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:3391-3401. [PMID: 36800204 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c08188] [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] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Scleractinian corals have been observed to be capable of accumulating microplastics from reef environments; however, the tolerant mechanism is poorly known. Here, we examined the response of Porites pukoensis to microplastic pollution by analyzing algal symbiont density, energetic metabolism, and caspase3 activities (representing the apoptosis level) in the coral-Symbiodiniaceae association. The environments of three fringing reef regions along the south coast of Sanya City, Hainan Province of China, were polluted by microplastics (for example, microplastic concentrations in the seawater ranged from 3.3 to 46.6 particles L-1), resulting in microplastic accumulation in P. pukoensis (0.4-2.4 particles cm-2). The accumulation of microplastics was negatively correlated to algal symbiont density in the corals but not to caspase3 activities in the two symbiotic partners, demonstrating that P. pukoensis could tolerate accumulated microplastics despite the decrease of algal symbiont density. Furthermore, results from the carbon stable isotope and cellular energy allocation assay indicated that P. pukoensis obtained energy availability (mainly as lipid reserves) using the switch between heterotrophy and autotrophy to maintain energy balance and cope with accumulated microplastics. Collectively, P. pukoensis achieved tolerance to microplastic pollution by maintaining energy availability, which was largely attributed to its high heterotrophic plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Jia Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Xiaocong Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Chuanliang Wu
- Sanya Institute of Coral Reef Ecosystem, Sanya 572000, China
| | - Wenqi Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Senjie Lin
- Department of Marine Sciences, University of Connecticut, Groton, Connecticut 06340, United States
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24
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Sun N, Shi H, Li X, Gao C, Liu R. Combined toxicity of micro/nanoplastics loaded with environmental pollutants to organisms and cells: Role, effects, and mechanism. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 171:107711. [PMID: 36566717 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Micro/nanoplastics (MPs/NPs) are ubiquitous in the environment and living organisms have been exposed to these substances for a long time. When MPs/NPs enter different organisms, they transport various pollutants, including heavy metals, persistent organic pollutants, drugs, bacteria, and viruses, from the environment. On this basis, this paper summarizes the combined toxicity induced by MPs/NPs accumulating contaminants from the environment and entering organisms through a systematic review of 162 articles. Moreover, the factors influencing toxic interactions are critically discussed, thus highlighting the dominant role of the relative concentrations of contaminants in the combined toxic effects. Furthermore, for the first time, we describe the threats posed by MPs/NPs combined with other pollutants to human health, as well as their cytotoxic behavior and mechanism. We found that the "Trojan horse" effect of nanoplastics can increase the bioaccessibility of environmental pollutants, thus increasing the carcinogenic risk to humans. Simultaneously, the complex pollutants entering the cells are observed to be constantly dissociated due to the transport of lysosomes. However, current research on the intracellular release of MP/NP-loaded pollutants is relatively poor, which hinders the accurate in vivo toxicity assessment of combined pollutants. Based on the findings of our critical review, we recommend analyzing the toxic effects by clarifying the dose relationship of each component pollutant in cells, which is challenging yet crucial to exploring the toxic mechanism of combined pollution. In the future, our findings can contribute to establishing a system modeling the complete load-translocation toxicological mechanism of MP/NP-based composite pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Sun
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, Shandong Province, 72#, Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Huijian Shi
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, Shandong Province, 72#, Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Xiangxiang Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, Shandong Province, 72#, Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Canzhu Gao
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, Shandong Province, 72#, Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Rutao Liu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, Shandong Province, 72#, Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China.
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25
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Liu S, Pan YF, Li HX, Lin L, Hou R, Yuan Z, Huang P, Cai MG, Xu XR. Microplastic pollution in the surface seawater in Zhongsha Atoll, South China Sea. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 822:153604. [PMID: 35114230 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.153604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of microplastics in the marine environment has attracted extensive attention. So far, no information is known regarding the temporal and spatial variations of microplastics in Zhongsha Atoll. This study, for the first time, comprehensively investigated the occurrence and distribution of microplastics in the surface seawater in Zhongsha Atoll based on two ocean cruises. The abundances of microplastics measured in the surface seawater of Zhongsha Atoll were in the ranges of not detected (ND) to 67 items/m3, and ND to 160 items/m3 in 2019 and 2020, respectively. All microplastics detected in Zhongsha Atoll were fibers, most of which were transparent and less than 2 mm. Polyethylene terephthalate was the dominating composition of microplastics. These results suggested that sewage, surface runoff, atmospheric deposition by neighboring land, and fishing activities may be the primary pollution sources. This study provides critical information on microplastic pollution in Zhongsha Atoll for the first time, calling for more research in the management of marine plastic debris in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China
| | - Yun-Feng Pan
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Heng-Xiang Li
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China
| | - Lang Lin
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China
| | - Rui Hou
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China
| | - Zhen Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Peng Huang
- College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Ming-Gang Cai
- College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Xiang-Rong Xu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China.
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