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Du J, Wang X, Tao T, Su Y, Zhang X, Shao J, Zhang Y, Yu L, Jin B, Qv W, Cao X, Wang L, Yang Y. Effects of nanoplastic exposure routes on leaf decomposition in streams. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 357:124418. [PMID: 38908673 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
Polystyrene nanoparticles (PS NPs) released from plastic products have been demonstrated to pose a threat to leaf litter decomposition in streams. Given the multitrophic systems of species interactions, the effects of PS NPs through different exposure routes on ecosystem functioning remain unclear. Especially dietary exposure, a frequently overlooked pathway leading to toxicity, deserves more attention. A microcosm experiment was conducted in this study to assess the effects of waterborne and dietary exposure to PS NPs on the litter-based food chain involving leaves, microbial decomposers, and detritivores (river snails). Compared to waterborne contamination, dietary contamination resulted in lower microbial enzyme activities and a significantly higher decrease in the lipid content of leaves. For river snails, their antioxidant activity was significantly increased by 20.21%-69.93%, and their leaf consumption rate was significantly reduced by 16.60% through the dietary route due to the lower lipid content of leaves. Besides, the significantly decreased nutritional quality of river snails would negatively influence their palatability to predators. The findings of this study indicate that dietary exposure to PS NPs significantly impacts microbial and detritivore activities, thus affecting their functions in the detritus food chain as well as nutrient cycling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Du
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Pollution Treatment and Resource, China National Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Xilin Wang
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Tianying Tao
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yan Su
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xueting Zhang
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jing Shao
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yufan Zhang
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Luyao Yu
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Baodan Jin
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Pollution Treatment and Resource, China National Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenrui Qv
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xia Cao
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Pollution Treatment and Resource, China National Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lan Wang
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Pollution Treatment and Resource, China National Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yanqin Yang
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Pollution Treatment and Resource, China National Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
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Du J, Tao T, Gao M, Zhang X, Wang X, Zhang Q, Xu Y, Jin B, Wang L, Cao X. Response of a simulated aquatic fungal community to nanoplastics exposure and functional consequence on leaf decomposition. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 356:124342. [PMID: 38851376 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastics pose a potential threat to a wide variety of aquatic organisms. Despite the awareness of this existing hazard, the impact of nanoplastics on natural fungal communities remains a research gap. In this study, five dominant fungi species, isolated from a stream ecosystem, were used to explore the effects of different nano-polystyrene (nano-PS) particles concentrations on a simulated fungal community. Specifically, the evaluation was conducted regarding the fungal growth, reproductivity, structural composition, and ecological function in leaf litter decomposition. A 15-day exposure experiment showed that 100 μg/L nano-PS significantly reduced the microcosm pH. The extracellular enzyme activities of β-glucosidase, leucine-aminopeptidase, and peroxidase were significantly promoted by nano-PS exposure for 5 days or 15 days. Total sporulation rate significantly decreased after the 15-day exposure to 1 and 100 μg/L nano-PS and significantly increased under 10 μg/L nano-PS. In contrast, nano-PS concentrations had no effects on fungal biomass. In addition, the reduced relative abundance of Geotrichum candidum lowered its contribution to leaf decomposition, resulting in a decreased litter decomposition rate of a 24.5-27.9 % after exposure. This suggests that 1-100 μg/L nano-PS inhibited leaf decomposition by inhibiting fungal reproduction and reducing the contribution of specific fungal species. In addition, the findings highlight the importance of exploring the potential mechanisms of the interaction between nanoplastics and fungal species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Du
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Environmental Pollution Control and Ecological Restoration, Henan Province, China.
| | - Tianying Tao
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Mengxi Gao
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xueting Zhang
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xilin Wang
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yuanqian Xu
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Environmental Pollution Control and Ecological Restoration, Henan Province, China
| | - Baodan Jin
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Environmental Pollution Control and Ecological Restoration, Henan Province, China
| | - Lan Wang
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Environmental Pollution Control and Ecological Restoration, Henan Province, China
| | - Xia Cao
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Environmental Pollution Control and Ecological Restoration, Henan Province, China
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3
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Lee Y, Kim DH, Lee JS, Kim HS, Maszczyk P, Wang M, Yang Z, Wang DZ, Lee JS. Combined exposure to hypoxia and nanoplastics leads to negative synergistic oxidative stress-mediated effects in the water flea Daphnia magna. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 202:116306. [PMID: 38574500 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116306] [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: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the combined effects of hypoxia and NPs on the water flea Daphnia magna, a keystone species in freshwater environments. To measure and understand the oxidative stress responses, we used acute toxicity tests, fluorescence microscopy, enzymatic assays, Western blot analyses, and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis. Our findings demonstrate that hypoxia and NPs exhibit a negative synergy that increases oxidative stress, as indicated by heightened levels of reactive oxygen species and antioxidant enzyme activity. These effects lead to more severe reproductive and growth impairments in D. magna compared to a single-stressor exposure. In this work, molecular investigations revealed complex pathway activations involving HIF-1α, NF-κB, and mitogen-activated protein kinase, illustrating the intricate molecular dynamics that can occur in combined stress conditions. The results underscore the amplified physiological impacts of combined environmental stressors and highlight the need for integrated strategies in the management of aquatic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoseop Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, South Korea
| | - Duck-Hyun Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, South Korea
| | - Jin-Sol Lee
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, South Korea
| | - Hyung Sik Kim
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, South Korea
| | - Piotr Maszczyk
- Department of Hydrobiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Minghua Wang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, College of the Environment & Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Zhou Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, School of Biological Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
| | - Da-Zhi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of the Environment & Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Jae-Seong Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, South Korea.
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4
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Ferreira V. Macroplastic litter colonization by stream macroinvertebrates relative to that of plant litter: A meta-analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 342:123108. [PMID: 38070646 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.123108] [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: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Environmental pollution by anthropogenic litter is a global concern, but studies specifically addressing the interaction between macroplastics and macroinvertebrates in streams are scarce. However, several studies on plant litter decomposition in streams have also used plastic strips as a methodological approach to assess if macroinvertebrates colonize plant litter mostly as a substrate or a food resource. Looking at these studies from the plastic strips perspective may provide useful information on the interaction between macroplastics and macroinvertebrates in streams. I carried out a meta-analysis of 18 studies that have compared macroinvertebrate colonization of macroplastic litter and plant litter in streams to estimate the overall macroinvertebrate colonization of macroplastic litter relative to plant litter, and identify moderators of this difference. Macroinvertebrate colonization of macroplastic litter was overall lower (by ∼ 40%) compared with plant litter. However, differences in macroinvertebrate colonization between macroplastic litter and plant litter were observed when considering leaf litter but not wood litter, which may be a poorer substrate and food resource for macroinvertebrates. Also, differences in macroinvertebrate colonization between macroplastic litter and leaf litter were observed for shredders, collectors and predators, but not for grazers that may feed on the biofilm developed on macroplastics. Macroplastic litter supported lower macroinvertebrate density, biomass, abundance, and richness, but higher macroinvertebrate diversity than leaf litter. Higher macroinvertebrate diversity on macroplastic litter may have occurred when macroplastics represented more heterogeneous substrates (e.g., mixture of plastic types) than leaf litter (e.g., needles). Differences in macroinvertebrate abundance between macroplastic litter and leaf litter were not significantly affected by plastic type, mesh opening size, plant functional group or plant identity. By testing previously untested hypotheses, this meta-analysis guides future empirical studies. Future studies should also consider the geographical areas most affected by macroplastic pollution and the plastic types most often found in the streams.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verónica Ferreira
- MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, ARNET - Aquatic Research Network, Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal.
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5
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Du J, Wang X, Tao T, Zhang X, Jin B, Zhao J, Lv Y, Zhang Q, Hu K, Qv W, Xu Y, Cao X. Polystyrene size-dependent impacts on microbial decomposers and nutrient cycling in streams. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 905:167032. [PMID: 37709094 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167032] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
The particle size of plastic is one of the most important factors influencing its ecotoxicity, but we are unclear about the effect of polystyrene (PS) particle size on microbial decomposers and consequent nutrient cycling in streams. Here, using microcosm experiments, we assessed how three PS sizes (50 nm, 1 μm, and 20 μm) influenced the process and consequences of leaf litter decomposition. Under acute exposure to 1 μm and 20 μm PS, fungal biomass significantly decreased, but microbial biomass significantly increased, indicating compensations may work between fungi and other microbial decomposers. After chronic exposure to 50 nm and 1 μm PS, the leaf decomposition rate decreased by 19.27 % and 15.22 %, respectively, due to the reduced microbial enzyme activity, fungal diversity, and dominance of Anguillospora. As a result, the regeneration of nutrients, especially phosphorus, was significantly depressed, which might influence the primary productivity of streams. Therefore, our results suggest that nanoscale PS has a greater impact on microbial activity, thus affecting their functioning in leaf litter decomposition and consequent nutrient cycling. The findings provide a data support for the risk assessment of plastic pollution in freshwater systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Du
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Pollution Treatment and Resource, China National Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Xilin Wang
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Tianying Tao
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xueting Zhang
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Baodan Jin
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Pollution Treatment and Resource, China National Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jianguo Zhao
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Pollution Treatment and Resource, China National Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yangyang Lv
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Keying Hu
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenrui Qv
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yuanqian Xu
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Pollution Treatment and Resource, China National Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xia Cao
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Pollution Treatment and Resource, China National Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
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6
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Barros J, Kumar S, Seena S. Does functionalised nanoplastics modulate the cellular and physiological responses of aquatic fungi to metals? ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 337:122549. [PMID: 37730145 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122549] [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: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Co-contamination of freshwaters by nanoplastics (NPs; ≤ 1 μm) and metals is an emerging concern. Aquatic hyphomycetes play a crucial role as primary decomposers in these ecosystems. However, concurrent impacts of NPs and metals on the cellular and physiological activities of these fungi remain poorly understood. Here, the effects of environmentally realistic concentrations of two types of polystyrene (PS) NPs (bare and -COOH; up to 25 μg L-1) and copper (Cu; up to 50 μg L-1) individually and all possible combinations (NPs types and Cu) on Articulospora tetracladia, a prevalent aquatic hyphomycete, were investigated. Endpoints measured were intracellular reactive oxygen species accumulation, plasma membrane disruption and fungal growth. The results suggest that functionalised (-COOH) NPs enhance Cu adsorption, as revealed by spectroscopic analyses. Notably, NPs, Cu and their co-exposure to A. tetracladia can lead to ROS accumulation and plasma membrane disruption. In most cases, exposure to treatments containing -COOH NPs with Cu showed greater cellular response and suppressed fungal growth. By contrast, exposure to Cu individually showed stimulatory effects on fungal growth. Overall, this study provides novel insight that functionalisation of NPs facilitates metal adsorption, thus modulating the impacts of metals on aquatic fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Barros
- Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre (MARE)/Rede de Investigação Aquática (ARNET), Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Santosh Kumar
- Division of Chemical Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, South Korea; Department of Chemistry, School of Basic & Applied Sciences, Harcourt Butler Technical University, Kanpur 208002 Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sahadevan Seena
- Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre (MARE)/Rede de Investigação Aquática (ARNET), Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal.
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7
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Cesarini G, Secco S, Taurozzi D, Venditti I, Battocchio C, Marcheggiani S, Mancini L, Fratoddi I, Scalici M, Puccinelli C. Teratogenic effects of environmental concentration of plastic particles on freshwater organisms. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 898:165564. [PMID: 37467998 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Given the widespread presence of plastics, especially in micro- and nanoscale sizes, in freshwater systems, it is crucial to identify a suitable model organism for assessing the potential toxic and teratogenic effects of exposure to plastic particles. Until now, the early life stage of freshwater organisms and the regeneration capacity in relation to plastic particles exposure is a still poorly investigated topic. In this study, we examine the teratogenic effect on diatom Cocconeis placentula and cnidarian Hydra vulgaris under controlled exposure conditions of poly(styrene-co-methyl methacrylate) (P(S-co-MMA)) particles. Significant effects were observed at the lowest concentrations (0.1 μg/L). A significant increase in the teratological frequency in C. placentula and a significant decrease in the regeneration rate in H. vulgaris were found at the lowest concentration. The delay in hydra regeneration impaired the feeding capacity and tentacles reactivity at 96 h of exposure. No effects on diatom growth were observed upon exposure to P(S-co-MMA) particles (0.1, 1, 100, 10,000 μg/L) for 28 days and these findings agree with other studies investigating algal growth. The application of the Teratogenic Risk Index, modified for diatoms, highlighted a moderate risk for the lowest concentration evaluating C. placentula and low risk at the lowest and the highest concentrations considering H. vulgaris. This study suggests the importance of testing organisms belonging to different trophic levels as diverse teratogenic effects can be found and the need to evaluate environmentally relevant concentrations of plastic particles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Cesarini
- Department of Sciences, University of Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Secco
- Department of Sciences, University of Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Davide Taurozzi
- Department of Sciences, University of Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Iole Venditti
- Department of Sciences, University of Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Battocchio
- Department of Sciences, University of Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Marcheggiani
- Department of Environment and Health, Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Mancini
- Department of Environment and Health, Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria Fratoddi
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Scalici
- Department of Sciences, University of Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy.
| | - Camilla Puccinelli
- Department of Environment and Health, Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy.
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Salam M, Zheng H, Liu Y, Zaib A, Rehman SAU, Riaz N, Eliw M, Hayat F, Li H, Wang F. Effects of micro(nano)plastics on soil nutrient cycling: State of the knowledge. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 344:118437. [PMID: 37343476 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.118437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
The ecological impacts of micro(nano)plastics (MNPs) have attracted attention worldwide because of their global occurrence, persistence, and environmental risks. Increasing evidence shows that MNPs can affect soil nutrient cycling, but the latest advances on this topic have not systematically reviewed. Here, we aim to present the state of knowledge about the effects of MNPs on soil nutrient cycling, particularly of C, N, and P. Using the latest data, the present review mainly focuses on three aspects, including (1) the effects and underlying mechanisms of MNPs on soil nutrient cycling, particularly of C, N and P, (2) the factors influencing the effects of MNPs on soil nutrient cycling, and (3) the knowledge gaps and future directions. We conclude that MNPs can alter soil nutrient cycling via mediating soil nutrient availability, soil enzyme activities, functional microbial communities, and their potential ecological functions. Furthermore, the effects of MNPs vary with MNPs characteristics (i.e., polymeric type, size, dosage, and shape), chemical additives, soil physicochemical conditions, and soil biota. Considering the complexity of MNP-soil interactions, multi-scale experiments using environmental relevant MNPs are required to shed light on the effects of MNPs on soil nutrients. By learning how MNPs influence soil nutrients cycles, this review can guide policy and management decisions to safeguard soil health and ensure sustainable agriculture and land use practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Salam
- Key Laboratory of Eco-Environment of Three Gorges Region, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Huaili Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Eco-Environment of Three Gorges Region, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Yingying Liu
- College of Environment and Safety Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, Shandong Province, 266042, China
| | - Aneeqa Zaib
- Department of Environmental Science, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Syed Aziz Ur Rehman
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, 54000, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Nimra Riaz
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, 54000, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Moataz Eliw
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, Al-Azhar University, Assiut 71524, Egypt
| | - Faisal Hayat
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing, 400714, China
| | - Hong Li
- Key Laboratory of Eco-Environment of Three Gorges Region, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China.
| | - Fayuan Wang
- College of Environment and Safety Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, Shandong Province, 266042, China.
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9
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Du J, Wang X, Zhang Y, Pu G, Jin B, Qv W, Cao X. Can titanium dioxide nanoparticles modulate the effects of zinc oxide nanoparticles on aquatic leaf litter decomposition? CHEMOSPHERE 2023:139313. [PMID: 37354960 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
The potential impacts of metallic nanoparticles (NPs) at environmental levels on freshwater ecosystems cannot be ignored due to their frequent release. The most widely used metallic oxide, ZnO NPs and TiO2 NPs (100 ng L-1) were applied to explore their single and combined effects on leaf litter decomposition. Although ZnO NPs and TiO2 NPs alone or in combination increased 22.68%-41.17% of the leaf decomposition rate, they performed different toxic mechanisms in ecological processes. The microbial mass and enzyme activities significantly increased after acute exposure, but significantly decreased after chronic exposure to ZnO NPs. The activity of BG was the most sensitive factor that was decreased by 66.22%, 56.97%, and 39.39% after 21-day exposure to ZnO NPs, TiO2 NPs, and in combination, respectively. In addition, the analysis of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy suggested a novel perspective on understanding the promoting mechanism. The promotion effect of ZnO NPs relied on the enhanced decomposition of refractory organics and easily degradable substances due to the contribution of Anguillospora, Pyrenochaetopsis, and Bipolaris. The single exposure to TiO2 NPs and combined exposure with ZnO NPs promoted microbial mass and hydrolase activities, with the stimulating effect attributed to the enhanced decomposition of soluble substances. Therefore, the results highlight the importance of chemical analysis of decomposed leaves to evaluate the potential threat of metallic NPs to the function of freshwater ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Du
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Environmental Pollution Control and Ecological Restoration, Henan Province, China.
| | - Xilin Wang
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yuyan Zhang
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Gaozhong Pu
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Plant Conservation and Restoration Ecology in Karst Terrain, Guangxi Institute of Botany, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guilin, China
| | - Baodan Jin
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Environmental Pollution Control and Ecological Restoration, Henan Province, China
| | - Wenrui Qv
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xia Cao
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Environmental Pollution Control and Ecological Restoration, Henan Province, China.
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10
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Khallil ARM, Ali EH, Ibrahim SS, Hassan EA. Seasonal fluctuations and diversity of Ingoldian mycobiota in two water bodies receiving different effluents at Assiut Governorate (Upper Egypt). BMC Microbiol 2023; 23:163. [PMID: 37280536 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-023-02903-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In the current study, fifty-eight Ingoldain fungal species assignable to forty-one genera were recovered from two water bodies receiving the treated sewage and the effluents of oils and soaps factory at Assiut Governorate (Upper Egypt), of which Anguillospora, Amniculicola, Flagellospora, and Mycocentrospora were the most prevalent genera. The most widespread identified species were Anguillospora furtive, Amniculicola longissima and Flagellospora fusarioides. Forty-three species were identified for the first time in Egypt. The most Ingoldain taxa were estimated for El-Zinnar canal, with the highest recorded taxa in winter. Whereas, the highest dominance of Ingoldian fungi was estimated for the El-Ibrahimia canal. The highest Simpson and Shannon diversity indexes were estimated for El-Zinnar canal samples recording 0.9683 and 3.741, respectively. The poorest water sites with Ingoldian fungi were those exposed directly to either treated sewage or industrial effluents, with which relatively higher values of water conductivity, cations and anions. Water temperature was the main abiotic factor driving the seasonal occurrence of Ingoldian fungi. It is interesting to isolate some Ingoldian fungal species from the stressful water sites receiving the effluents which provide valuable insights regarding their adaptation, predictive and putative role as bioindicators and their potentiality in pollutants degradation, organic decomposition, and transformation of xenobiotic compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdel-Raouf M Khallil
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, University of Assiut, Assiut, EG-71515, Egypt
| | - Essam H Ali
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, University of Assiut, Assiut, EG-71515, Egypt
| | - Sabreen S Ibrahim
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, University of Assiut, Assiut, EG-71515, Egypt
| | - Elhagag Ahmed Hassan
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, University of Assiut, Assiut, EG-71515, Egypt.
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11
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Cesarini G, Coppola F, Campos D, Venditti I, Battocchio C, Di Giulio A, Muzzi M, Pestana JLT, Scalici M. Nanoplastic exposure inhibits feeding and delays regeneration in a freshwater planarian. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023:121959. [PMID: 37271363 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The concentration of nanoplastics (NPs) is expected to increase in aquatic environments thus potentially threatening freshwater organisms through interactions with plastic particles that variously float, circulate in the water column or sink into the benthos. Studies into the mechanisms of any NP effects are still scarce, particularly with respect to the regenerative ability of biota for which there is no recognised model organism. The present study therefore aimed to investigate behavioural and regeneration responses of the freshwater planarian Girardia tigrina after 10 days exposed to along a gradient 0.01-10 mg/L of poly (styrene-co-methyl methacrylate) NPs (∼426 ± 175 nm). Exposure to NPs induced a significant reduction in planarian feeding rate even at low concentrations (LOEC of 0.01 mg/L), while head regeneration was delayed in a clear dose response way (LOEC of 0.1 mg/L for blastema length). Planaria locomotion assessed was not affected. Our results highlight the potential adverse effects of exposure to poly (styrene-co-methyl methacrylate) NPs and show that feeding behaviour and regeneration of a freshwater benthic organism can be indicators of the resulting toxicity. Planarians are becoming widely used model organisms in ecotoxicology and can help to address potential effects of plastic polymers on regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Cesarini
- Department of Sciences, University of Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146, Rome, Italy.
| | - Francesca Coppola
- CESAM & Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Diana Campos
- CESAM & Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Iole Venditti
- Department of Sciences, University of Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Battocchio
- Department of Sciences, University of Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Di Giulio
- Department of Sciences, University of Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Muzzi
- Department of Sciences, University of Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - João L T Pestana
- CESAM & Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Massimiliano Scalici
- Department of Sciences, University of Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
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12
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Tang Y, Hardy TJ, Yoon JY. Receptor-based detection of microplastics and nanoplastics: Current and future. Biosens Bioelectron 2023; 234:115361. [PMID: 37148803 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2023.115361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is an emerging environmental concern, gaining significant attention worldwide. They are classified into microplastics (MP; defined from 1 μm to 5 mm) and smaller nanoplastics (NP; <1 μm). NPs may pose higher ecological risks than MPs. Various microscopic and spectroscopic techniques have been used to detect MPs, and the same methods have occasionally been used for NPs. However, they are not based on receptors, which provide high specificity in most biosensing applications. Receptor-based micro/nanoplastics (MNP) detection can provide high specificity, distinguishing MNPs from the environmental samples and, more importantly, identifying the plastic types. It can also offer a low limit of detection (LOD) required for environmental screening. Such receptors are expected to detect NPs specifically at the molecular level. This review categorizes the receptors into cells, proteins, peptides, fluorescent dyes, polymers, and micro/nanostructures. Detection techniques used with these receptors are also summarized and categorized. There is plenty of room for future research to test for broader classes of environmental samples and many plastic types, to lower the LOD, and to apply the current techniques for NPs. Portable and handheld MNP detection should also be demonstrated for field use since the current demonstrations primarily utilized laboratory instruments. Detection on microfluidic platforms will also be crucial in miniaturizing and automating the assay and, eventually, collecting an extensive database to support machine learning-based classification of MNP types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yisha Tang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, United States
| | - Trinity J Hardy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, United States
| | - Jeong-Yeol Yoon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, United States.
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13
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From microbes to ecosystems: a review of the ecological effects of biodegradable plastics. Emerg Top Life Sci 2022; 6:423-433. [PMID: 36069649 DOI: 10.1042/etls20220015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Biodegradable plastics have been proposed as a potential solution to plastic pollution, as they can be biodegraded into their elemental components by microbial action. However, the degradation rate of biodegradable plastics is highly variable across environments, leading to the potential for accumulation of plastic particles, chemical co-contaminants and/or degradation products. This paper reviews the toxicological effects of biodegradable plastics on species and ecosystems, and contextualises these impacts with those previously reported for conventional polymers. While the impacts of biodegradable plastics and their co-contaminants across levels of biological organisation are poorly researched compared with conventional plastics, evidence suggests that individual-level effects could be broadly similar. Where differences in the associated toxicity may arise is due to the chemical structure of biodegradable polymers which should facilitate enzymatic depolymerisation and the utilisation of the polymer carbon by the microbial community. The input of carbon can alter microbial composition, causing an enrichment of carbon-degrading bacteria and fungi, which can have wider implications for carbon and nitrogen dynamics. Furthermore, there is the potential for toxic degradation products to form during biodegradation, however understanding the environmental concentration and effects of degradation products are lacking. As global production of biodegradable polymers continues to increase, further evaluation of their ecotoxicological effects on organisms and ecosystem function are required.
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Tagliaferro M, Rocha C, Marques JC, Gonçalves AMM. Assessment of metal exposure (uranium and copper) in fatty acids and carbohydrate profiles of Calamoceras marsupus larvae (Trichoptera) and Alnus glutinosa leaf litter. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 836:155613. [PMID: 35523349 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Physiological changes were explored in fatty acids (FA) and carbohydrate (CHO) composition in the shredder Calamoceras marsupus larvae (Trichoptera) and leaf litter (C. marsupus food) exposed to copper and uranium under natural and experimental conditions. We measured FA and CHO content in leaf litter and larvae specimens from reference and impacted streams, and exposed for 5 weeks to four realistic environmental concentrations of copper (35 μg L-1 and 70 μg L-1) and uranium (25 μg L-1 and 50 μg L-1). Regarding FA, (1) leaf litter had a reduced polyunsaturated FA (PUFA) content in metal treatments, s (14 to 33% of total FA), compared to natural conditions (≥39% of total FA). Leaf litter exposed to uranium also differed in saturated FA (SFA) composition, with lower values in natural conditions and higher values under low uranium concentrations. (2) C. marsupus had/showed low PUFA content under Cu and U exposure, particularly in high uranium concentrations. Detritivores also decreased in PUFA under exposure to both metals, particularly in high uranium concentrations. On the other hand, (1) microorganisms of the biofilm colonizing leaf litter differed in CHO composition between natural (impacted and reference) and experimental conditions, with glucose and galactose being consistently the most abundant sugars, found in different amounts under copper or uranium exposure; (2) CHO of detritivores showed similar high galactose and fucose concentrations in contaminated streams and high copper treatments, whereas low copper treatment showed distinct CHO profiles, with higher mannose, glucose, arabinose, and fucose concentrations. Our study provides evidence of metal exposure effects on FA and CHO contents at different trophic levels, which might alter the quality of food flow in trophic webs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Tagliaferro
- IDEA - Instituto de Diversidad y Ecología Animal (Universidad Nacional de Córdoba - CONICET), Av, Vélez Sarsfield 299, X5000 JJC Córdoba, Argentina.
| | - Carolina Rocha
- University of Coimbra, MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Department of Life Sciences, 3001-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João C Marques
- University of Coimbra, MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Department of Life Sciences, 3001-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana M M Gonçalves
- University of Coimbra, MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Department of Life Sciences, 3001-456 Coimbra, Portugal; Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
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15
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Batista D, Pradhan A, Pascoal C, Cássio F. Evidence of micro and macroplastic toxicity along a stream detrital food-chain. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 436:129064. [PMID: 35580497 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.129064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Freshwater ecosystems are subjected to plastic extensive pollution because they are the direct link between plastic wastes and marine ecosystems. The aim of this study was to assess the impacts of different sizes of polyethylene plastics (micro: µPs and macroplastics: PBs) on freshwater decomposers of plant litter. We exposed leaf associated microbial assemblages to µPs (0.5 or 1.5 g L-1) and discs of PBs as follows: green plastic bags (PB-G) alone or in mixtures with transparent plastic bags (PB-Mix). Then, we conducted a feeding preference experiment with the invertebrate shredder Limnephilus sp. to assess their capacity to distinguish leaf discs from PB discs of the same size (12 mm). Leaf decomposition, activities of fungal enzymes and sporulation were inhibited by µPs and PB-Mix, and shifts in fungal community composition were observed. The invertebrate shredders preferred to feed on leaves treated with µPs avoiding those exposed to PB-G/PB-Mix. Our results demonstrated that plastics can have a direct effect on stream-dwelling microbial decomposers and an indirect effect on higher trophic levels (shredders), highlighting that trophic transfer is a route of plastic exposure. The plastic properties (size, concentration, colour) appear to influence plastic toxicity to microbes and shredders, indicating the importance of considering physicochemical properties when assessing their risks to freshwater ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Batista
- Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology (CBMA), Department of Biology, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal.
| | - Arunava Pradhan
- Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology (CBMA), Department of Biology, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Pascoal
- Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology (CBMA), Department of Biology, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; Institute of Science and Innovation for Bio-sustainability (IB-S), University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Fernanda Cássio
- Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology (CBMA), Department of Biology, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; Institute of Science and Innovation for Bio-sustainability (IB-S), University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
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16
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Trabulo J, Pradhan A, Pascoal C, Cássio F. Can microplastics from personal care products affect stream microbial decomposers in the presence of silver nanoparticles? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 832:155038. [PMID: 35390375 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are emerging contaminants of great concern due to their abundance and persistence over time in aquatic environments. However, studies on their impacts on freshwater organisms are scarce. In resemblance, silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) are incorporated into textiles and personal care products and are also classified as emerging contaminants. We used the leaf litter decomposition model system to investigate the effects of MPs from a commercially used personal care product, alone or in mixture with Ag-NPs, on the diversity and activities of freshwater microbial decomposers. We exposed stream microbial communities associated with leaf litter to increasing concentrations of MPs (polyethylene extracted from a personal care product; 100 μg L-1 up to 1 g L-1 5 concentrations plus 1 control) for 27 days in the absence or presence of Ag-NPs (0.1 mg L-1 and 1 mg L-1). The exposure to MPs, alone or in mixture with Ag-NPs, negatively affected fungal diversity and sporulation, with a reduction in leaf litter decomposition (Cohen's d > 1.5; r> 0.8; Bonferroni, P < 0.01). Shifts in community structure of sporulating fungi were observed, and effects were more pronounced in mixtures with Ag-NPs at the highest concentration. Mixtures of MPs with Ag-NPs (at the higher concentration) had the strongest impacts on extracellular enzymatic (β-glucosidase, Cohen's d > 1; r > 0.5; phenol oxidase, Cohen's d > 1; r > 0.4) activities (ANOVAs, P < 0.05). Apart from sporulation rates, observed toxicity in mixtures was lower than that expected based on individual toxicity effects, mainly for higher concentrations (Bonferroni, P < 0.05). Our study provided evidence of the potential harmful effects of MPs, alone or in mixtures with Ag-NPs, on the activities of aquatic fungi and on a key ecosystem process, determinant to organic matter turnover in streams.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Trabulo
- CBMA - Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology, Biology Department, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; IB-S - Institute of Science and Innovation for Bio-Sustainability, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal.
| | - Arunava Pradhan
- CBMA - Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology, Biology Department, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; IB-S - Institute of Science and Innovation for Bio-Sustainability, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Pascoal
- CBMA - Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology, Biology Department, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; IB-S - Institute of Science and Innovation for Bio-Sustainability, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Fernanda Cássio
- CBMA - Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology, Biology Department, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; IB-S - Institute of Science and Innovation for Bio-Sustainability, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
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Plastic Interactions with Pollutants and Consequences to Aquatic Ecosystems: What We Know and What We Do Not Know. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12060798. [PMID: 35740921 PMCID: PMC9221377 DOI: 10.3390/biom12060798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Plastics are a group of synthetic materials made of organic polymers and some additives with special characteristics. Plastics have become part of our daily life due to their many applications and uses. However, inappropriately managed plastic waste has raised concern regarding their ecotoxicological and human health risks in the long term. Due to the non-biodegradable nature of plastics, their waste may take several thousands of years to partially degrade in natural environments. Plastic fragments/particles can be very minute in size and are mistaken easily for prey or food by aquatic organisms (e.g., invertebrates, fishes). The surface properties of plastic particles, including large surface area, functional groups, surface topography, point zero charge, influence the sorption of various contaminants, including heavy metals, oil spills, PAHs, PCBs and DDT. Despite the fact that the number of studies on the biological effects of plastic particles on biota and humans has been increasing in recent years, studies on mixtures of plastics and other chemical contaminants in the aquatic environment are still limited. This review aims to gather information about the main characteristics of plastic particles that allow different types of contaminants to adsorb on their surfaces, the consequences of this adsorption, and the interactions of plastic particles with aquatic biota. Additionally, some missing links and potential solutions are presented to boost more research on this topic and achieve a holistic view on the effects of micro- and nanoplastics to biological systems in aquatic environments. It is urgent to implement measures to deal with plastic pollution that include improving waste management, monitoring key plastic particles, their hotspots, and developing their assessment techniques, using alternative products, determining concentrations of micro- and nanoplastics and the contaminants in freshwater and marine food-species consumed by humans, applying clean-up and remediation strategies, and biodegradation strategies.
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Abstract
Deprivation of protection for aquatic hyphomycetes is disturbing because they are key players in freshwater ecosystems across the globe. To attain a more holistic conservation paradigm for biodiversity in freshwaters, it is necessary to broaden our ecological perception of microfungi, mainly in aquatic hyphomycetes. A considerable groundwork still needs to be accomplished in progressing towards conserving aquatic hyphomycetes. Overcoming the paucity of information regarding the rare and endangered species, biogeography and above all, a global biodiversity database, would be a significant contribution in the initiation of an overarching conservation strategy for aquatic hyphomycetes. Being aware that the biodiversity decline in freshwaters is alarming, here we seek to explore why biodiversity data of aquatic hyphomycetes are missing. This article closely examines the threats to the biodiversity of aquatic hyphomycetes and freshwater ecosystems. Moving forward, we advocate a structured approach to gaining a thorough understanding to embrace aquatic hyphomycetes biodiversity into the conservation strategies. Including aquatic hyphomycetes in the conservation objectives may attract more funding opportunities for global surveys to initiate a fungal inclusive conservation era. Fungal conservation ventures can profit from interdisciplinary collaborations and cutting-edge science and technology, leading to informed decision making for biodiversity assessment and management.
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