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Shi R, Liu W, Liu J, Zeb A, Wang Q, Wang J, Li J, Yu M, Ali N, An J. Earthworms improve the rhizosphere micro-environment to mitigate the toxicity of microplastics to tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 472:134578. [PMID: 38743971 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134578] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are widespread in agricultural soil, potentially threatening soil environmental quality and plant growth. However, toxicological research on MPs has mainly been limited to individual components (such as plants, microbes, and animals), without considering their interactions. Here, we examined earthworm-mediated effects on tomato growth and the rhizosphere micro-environment under MPs contamination. Earthworms (Eisenia fetida) mitigated the growth-inhibiting effect of MPs on tomato plant. Particularly, when exposed to environmentally relevant concentrations (ERC, 0.02% w/w) of MPs, the addition of earthworms significantly (p < 0.05) increased shoot and root dry weight by 12-13% and 13-14%, respectively. MPs significantly reduced (p < 0.05) soil ammonium (NH4+-N) (0.55-0.69 mg/kg), nitrate nitrogen (NO3--N) (7.02-8.65 mg/kg) contents, and N cycle related enzyme activities (33.47-42.39 μg/h/g) by 37.7-50.9%, 22.6-37.2%, and 34.2-48.0%, respectively, while earthworms significantly enhanced (p < 0.05) inorganic N mineralization and bioavailability. Furthermore, earthworms increased bacterial network complexity, thereby enhancing the robustness of the bacterial system to resist soil MPs stress. Meanwhile, partial least squares modelling showed that earthworms significantly influenced (p < 0.01) soil nutrients, which in turn significantly affected (p < 0.01) plant growth. Therefore, the comprehensive consideration of soil ecological composition is important for assessing MPs ecological risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiying Shi
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Weitao Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China.
| | - Jinzheng Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Aurang Zeb
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Qi Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jianling Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jiantao Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Miao Yu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Nouman Ali
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jing An
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110016, China.
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2
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Li Y, Hou F, Sun L, Lan J, Han Z, Li T, Wang Y, Zhao Z. Ecological effect of microplastics on soil microbe-driven carbon circulation and greenhouse gas emission: A review. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 364:121429. [PMID: 38870791 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.121429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Soil organic carbon (SOC) pool, the largest part of terrestrial ecosystem, controls global terrestrial carbon balance and consequently presented carbon cycle-climate feedback in climate projections. Microplastics, (MPs, <5 mm) as common pollutants in soil ecosystems, have an obvious impact on soil-borne carbon circulation by affecting soil microbial processes, which play a central role in regulating SOC conversion. In this review, we initially presented the sources, properties and ecological risks of MPs in soil ecosystem, and then the differentiated effects of MPs on the component of SOC, including dissolved organic carbon, soil microbial biomass carbon and easily oxidized organic carbon varying with the types and concentrations of MPs, the soil types, etc. As research turns into a broader perspective, greenhouse gas emissions dominated by the mineralization of SOC coming into view since it can be significantly affected by MPs and is closely associated with soil microbial respiration. The pathways of MPs impacting soil microbes-driven carbon conversion include changing microbial community structure and composition, the functional enzyme's activity and the abundance and expression of functional genes. However, numerous uncertainties still exist regarding the microbial mechanisms in the deeper biochemical process. More comprehensive studies are necessary to explore the affected footprint and provide guidance for finding the evaluation criterion of MPs affecting climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaru Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Fangwei Hou
- College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Lulu Sun
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Jing Lan
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Zhanghua Han
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Optics and Photonic Devices, Center of Light Manipulation and Applications, School of Physics and Electronics, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250358, China
| | - Tongtong Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Yiming Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Zongshan Zhao
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China.
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3
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Aralappanavar VK, Mukhopadhyay R, Yu Y, Liu J, Bhatnagar A, Praveena SM, Li Y, Paller M, Adyel TM, Rinklebe J, Bolan NS, Sarkar B. Effects of microplastics on soil microorganisms and microbial functions in nutrients and carbon cycling - A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 924:171435. [PMID: 38438042 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
The harmful effects of microplastics (MPs) pollution in the soil ecosystem have drawn global attention in recent years. This paper critically reviews the effects of MPs on soil microbial diversity and functions in relation to nutrients and carbon cycling. Reports suggested that both plastisphere (MP-microbe consortium) and MP-contaminated soils had distinct and lower microbial diversity than that of non-contaminated soils. Alteration in soil physicochemical properties and microbial interactions within the plastisphere facilitated the enrichment of plastic-degrading microorganisms, including those involved in carbon (C) and nutrient cycling. MPs conferred a significant increase in the relative abundance of soil nitrogen (N)-fixing and phosphorus (P)-solubilizing bacteria, while decreased the abundance of soil nitrifiers and ammonia oxidisers. Depending on soil types, MPs increased bioavailable N and P contents and nitrous oxide emission in some instances. Furthermore, MPs regulated soil microbial functional activities owing to the combined toxicity of organic and inorganic contaminants derived from MPs and contaminants frequently encountered in the soil environment. However, a thorough understanding of the interactions among soil microorganisms, MPs and other contaminants still needs to develop. Since currently available reports are mostly based on short-term laboratory experiments, field investigations are needed to assess the long-term impact of MPs (at environmentally relevant concentration) on soil microorganisms and their functions under different soil types and agro-climatic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Raj Mukhopadhyay
- Department of Chemistry, Mellon College of Science, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh 15213, United States
| | - Yongxiang Yu
- Research Center for Environmental Ecology and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Green Chemical Engineering Process of Ministry of Education, School of Environmental Ecology and Biological Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430205, China
| | - Jingnan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Water and Sediment Sciences of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Amit Bhatnagar
- Department of Separation Science, LUT School of Engineering Science, LUT University, Sammonkatu 12, FI-50130 Mikkeli, Finland
| | - Sarva Mangala Praveena
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Yang Li
- Key Laboratory of Water and Sediment Sciences of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Mike Paller
- Aquatic Biology Consultants, Inc., 35 Bungalow Ct., Aiken, SC 29803, USA
| | - Tanveer M Adyel
- STEM, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes, SA 5095, Australia
| | - Jörg Rinklebe
- University of Wuppertal, School of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Institute of Foundation Engineering, Water- and Waste-Management, Laboratory of Soil- and Groundwater-Management, Pauluskirchstraße 7, 42285 Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Nanthi S Bolan
- UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6001, Australia; The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6001, Australia
| | - Binoy Sarkar
- Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes, SA 5095, Australia.
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4
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Adomako MO, Wu J, Lu Y, Adu D, Seshie VI, Yu FH. Potential synergy of microplastics and nitrogen enrichment on plant holobionts in wetland ecosystems. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 915:170160. [PMID: 38244627 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170160] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Wetland ecosystems are global hotspots for environmental contaminants, including microplastics (MPs) and nutrients such as nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P). While MP and nutrient effects on host plants and their associated microbial communities at the individual level have been studied, their synergistic effects on a plant holobiont (i.e., a plant host plus its microbiota, such as bacteria and fungi) in wetland ecosystems are nearly unknown. As an ecological entity, plant holobionts play pivotal roles in biological nitrogen fixation, promote plant resilience and defense chemistry against pathogens, and enhance biogeochemical processes. We summarize evidence based on recent literature to elaborate on the potential synergy of MPs and nutrient enrichment on plant holobionts in wetland ecosystems. We provide a conceptual framework to explain the interplay of MPs, nutrients, and plant holobionts and discuss major pathways of MPs and nutrients into the wetland milieu. Moreover, we highlight the ecological consequences of loss of plant holobionts in wetland ecosystems and conclude with recommendations for pending questions that warrant urgent research. We found that nutrient enrichment promotes the recruitment of MPs-degraded microorganisms and accelerates microbially mediated degradation of MPs, modifying their distribution and toxicity impacts on plant holobionts in wetland ecosystems. Moreover, a loss of wetland plant holobionts via long-term MP-nutrient interactions may likely exacerbate the disruption of wetland ecosystems' capacity to offer nature-based solutions for climate change mitigation through soil organic C sequestration. In conclusion, MP and nutrient enrichment interactions represent a severe ecological risk that can disorganize plant holobionts and their taxonomic roles, leading to dysbiosis (i.e., the disintegration of a stable plant microbiome) and diminishing wetland ecosystems' integrity and multifunctionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Opoku Adomako
- Institute of Wetland Ecology & Clone Ecology/Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, Zhejiang, China; School of Life Science, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, China
| | - Jing Wu
- Institute of Wetland Ecology & Clone Ecology/Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, Zhejiang, China; School of Life Science, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, China
| | - Ying Lu
- School of Life Science, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, China
| | - Daniel Adu
- School of Management Science and Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhejiang 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Vivian Isabella Seshie
- Department of Environmental and Safety Engineering, University of Mines and Technology, Tarkwa, Ghana
| | - Fei-Hai Yu
- Institute of Wetland Ecology & Clone Ecology/Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, Zhejiang, China; School of Life Science, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, China.
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5
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Wu H, Gao T, Hu A, Wang J. Network Complexity and Stability of Microbes Enhanced by Microplastic Diversity. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:4334-4345. [PMID: 38382548 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c08704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic mixtures are ubiquitously distributed in global ecosystems and include varying types. However, it remains unknown how microplastic diversity affects the biotic interactions of microbes. Here, we developed novel experiments of 600 microcosms with microplastic diversity ranging from 1 to 6 types and examined ecological networks for microbial communities in lake sediments after 2 months of incubation at 15 and 20 °C. We found that microplastic diversity generally enhanced the complexity of microbial networks at both temperatures, such as increasing network connectance and reducing average path length. This phenomenon was further confirmed by strengthened species interactions toward high microplastic diversity except for the negative interactions at 15 °C. Interestingly, increasing temperatures further exaggerated the effects of microplastic diversity on network structures, resulting in higher network connectivity and species interactions. Consistently, using species extinction simulations, we found that higher microplastic diversity and temperature led to more robust networks, and their effects were additionally and positively mediated by the presence of biodegradable microplastics. Our findings provide the first evidence that increasing microplastic diversity could unexpectedly promote the complexity and stability of microbial networks and that future warming could amplify this effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Lake Science and Environment, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
- College of Oceanography, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Tianheng Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Lake Science and Environment, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
- College of Marine Science and Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
| | - Ang Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Lake Science and Environment, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Jianjun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Lake Science and Environment, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
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6
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Zhou X, Xiao C, Zhang B, Chen T, Yang X. Effects of microplastics on carbon release and microbial community in mangrove soil systems. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133152. [PMID: 38056259 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133152] [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: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Mangrove ecosystems are major carbon sink biomes and also a sink of microplastics (MPs). The final enrichment of MPs in sediments may have a significant impact on the microbial community and carbon turnover in the soil. However, the effects of MP pollution on the mangrove soil microbial communities and carbon release remain unknown. Here, we conducted a manipulative incubation experiment by adding MPs to soil at different soil depths to examine the effect of enriched MPs on soil microorganisms and its function (i.e., decomposition of soil carbon). The results showed that the addition of MPs had no significant effect on the microbial diversity and CO2 cumulative emission in the topsoil but significantly increased CO2 release from the subsoil. The promoting effect of polylactide (PLA) on the release of CO2 from the subsoil was stronger than that of polyethylene (PE) and aging PE. In the subsoil, the activity of soil extracellular enzymes related to N acquisition increased with the MP addition, indicating an increase in microbial N deficiency. The subsoil was more sensitive to MPs because of the exacerbated nitrogen limitation. MP addition reduced the microbial diversity of the subsoil and altered soil microbial interactions. The increasing abundance of some microbial taxa, especially bacteria related to the sulfur cycle, indicated more active electron transfer and organic carbon mineralization in the subsoil. Our findings suggest that MP contamination has potential effects on microbial communities, nutrient cycling, and carbon release in mangrove soils that vary depending on soil depth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes and Resource Ecology, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou)
| | - Cunde Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes and Resource Ecology, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Bingwei Zhang
- Zhuhai Branch of State Key Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes and Resource Ecology, Beijing Normal University at Zhuhai, Zhuhai 519087, China
| | - Tao Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Xiaofan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes and Resource Ecology, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou).
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7
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Zhang S, Cui L, Zhao Y, Xie H, Song M, Wu H, Hu Z, Liang S, Zhang J. The critical role of microplastics in the fate and transformation of sulfamethoxazole and antibiotic resistance genes within vertical subsurface-flow constructed wetlands. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133222. [PMID: 38101014 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Constructed wetlands (CWs) are reservoirs of microplastics (MPs) in the environment. However, knowledge about the impact of MPs on antibiotic removal and the fate of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) is limited. We focused on sulfamethoxazole (SMX) as a representative compound to examine the effects of MPs on SMX removal and the proliferation and dissemination of two SMX-related ARGs (sul1 and sul2) in vertical subsurface-flow CW (VFCW) microcosm. The presence of MPs in the substrate was found to enhance the proliferation of microorganisms owing to the large specific surface area of the MPs and the release of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) on MP surfaces, which resulted in a high SMX removal ranging from 97.80 % to 99.80 %. However, the presence of MPs promoted microbial interactions and the horizontal gene transfer (HGT) of ARGs, which led to a significant increase in the abundances of sul1 and sul2 of 68.47 % and 17.20 %, respectively. It is thus imperative to implement rigorous monitoring strategies for MPs to mitigate their potential ecological hazards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiwen Zhang
- Environmental Research Institute, Shandong University, Binhai Road 72, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Lele Cui
- Environmental Research Institute, Shandong University, Binhai Road 72, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Yanhui Zhao
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Binhai Road 72, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Huijun Xie
- Environmental Research Institute, Shandong University, Binhai Road 72, Qingdao 266237, China.
| | - Maoyong Song
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Haiming Wu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Binhai Road 72, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Zhen Hu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Binhai Road 72, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Shuang Liang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Binhai Road 72, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Binhai Road 72, Qingdao 266237, China; College of Safety and Environmental Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, China
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8
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Liu M, Wang C, Zhu B. Independent and combined effects of microplastics pollution and drought on soil bacterial community. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 913:169749. [PMID: 38160843 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Global terrestrial ecosystems are simultaneously threatened by multiple environmental pressures, with microplastics (MPs) pollution and drought possibly being the most pressing, both of which may have unanticipated effects on soil organisms. Here, we investigated the responses of diversity, composition and functions of soil bacterial community to MPs pollution (including two MPs types: polyethylene (PE) and polylactic acid (PLA); two MPs sizes: < 20 μm and <300 μm) and drought in microcosms. We found that only 20 μm PLA MPs significantly decreased soil bacterial diversity by 17.4 % and altered soil bacterial community composition, while PE MPs and 300 μm PLA MPs had no significant effects. The copiotrophic bacteria (i.e., Proteobacteria and Firmicutes) were enriched in the 20 μm PLA MPs pollution soils due to the enhanced dissolved organic carbon contents. Moreover, our results showed that the 20 μm PLA MPs also affected the potential phenotypes and functions of soil bacterial community, increasing the potentially pathogenic, stress-tolerant, containing mobile elements and forming biofilms phenotypes, and promoting membrane transport and signal transduction pathways. These results suggested that the effects of MPs on soil bacterial community varied depending on MPs types and sizes. However, drought significantly increased soil bacterial diversity by 10.3 % and affected soil bacterial community composition in the 20 μm PLA MPs pollution soils. We also found that drought inhibited the levels of potentially pathogenic, containing mobile elements and forming biofilms phenotypes in the 20 μm PLA MPs pollution soils. Taken together, these findings reveal that drought may alleviate the adverse effects of MPs pollution on soil bacterial community, which enhances our understanding of the interactive effects of multiple global change factors on agroecosystem functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengli Liu
- Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, and Key Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes of the Ministry of Education, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Chong Wang
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Biao Zhu
- Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, and Key Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes of the Ministry of Education, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China.
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9
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Guo F, Liu B, Zhao J, Hou Y, Wu J, Zhou C, Hu H, Zhang T, Yang Z. Effects of polyethylene, polylactic acid, and tire particles on the sediment microbiome and metabolome at high and low temperatures. Appl Environ Microbiol 2024; 90:e0201623. [PMID: 38214515 PMCID: PMC10880613 DOI: 10.1128/aem.02016-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Global warming has led to a high incidence of extreme heat events, and the frequent occurrence of extreme heat events has had extensive and far-reaching impacts on wetland ecosystems. The widespread distribution of plastics in the environment, including polyethylene (PE), polylactic acid (PLA), and tire particles (TPs), has caused various environmental problems. Here, high-throughput sequencing techniques and metabolomics were used for the first time to investigate the effects of three popular microplastic types: PE, PLA, and TP, on the sediment microbiome and the metabolome at both temperatures. The microplastics were incorporated into the sediment at a concentration of 3% by weight of the dry sediment (wt/wt), to reflect environmentally relevant conditions. Sediment enzymatic activity and physicochemical properties were co-regulated by both temperatures and microplastics producing significant differences compared to controls. PE and PLA particles inhibited bacterial diversity at low temperatures and promoted bacterial diversity at high temperatures, and TP particles promoted both at both temperatures. For bacterial richness, only PLA showed inhibition at low temperature; all other treatments showed promotion. PE, PLA, and TP microplastics changed the community structure of sediment bacteria, forming two clusters at low and high temperatures. Furthermore, PE, PLA, and TP changed the sediment metabolic profiles, producing differential metabolites such as lipids and molecules, organic heterocyclic compounds, and organic acids and their derivatives, especially TP had the most significant effect. These findings contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the potential impact of microplastic contamination.IMPORTANCEIn this study, we added 3% (wt/wt) microplastic particles, including polyethylene, polylactic acid, and tire particles, to natural sediments under simulated laboratory conditions. Subsequently, we simulated the sediment microbial and ecosystem responses under different temperature conditions by incubating them for 60 days at 15°C and 35°C, respectively. After synthesizing these results, our study strongly suggests that the presence of microplastics in sediment ecosystems and exposure under different temperature conditions may have profound effects on soil microbial communities, enzyme activities, and metabolite profiles. This is important for understanding the potential hazards of microplastic contamination on terrestrial ecosystems and for developing relevant environmental management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Guo
- Henan Key Laboratory of Water Pollution Control and Rehabilitation Technology, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, China
- School of Environment and Municipal Engineering, North China University of Water Resources and Electric Power, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Biao Liu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Water Pollution Control and Rehabilitation Technology, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, China
| | - Jiaying Zhao
- School of Environment and Municipal Engineering, North China University of Water Resources and Electric Power, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yiran Hou
- Henan Key Laboratory of Water Pollution Control and Rehabilitation Technology, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, China
| | - Junfeng Wu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Water Pollution Control and Rehabilitation Technology, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, China
| | - Changrui Zhou
- Henan Key Laboratory of Water Pollution Control and Rehabilitation Technology, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, China
| | - Hui Hu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Water Pollution Control and Rehabilitation Technology, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, China
| | - Tingting Zhang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Water Pollution Control and Rehabilitation Technology, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, China
| | - Ziyan Yang
- School of Environment and Municipal Engineering, North China University of Water Resources and Electric Power, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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10
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Ren Y, Qi Y, Wang X, Duan X, Ye X. Effects of microplastics on litter decomposition in wetland soil. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 343:123145. [PMID: 38097161 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.123145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) may interfere with the primary ecological processes of soil, which has become a growing global environmental issue. In terrestrial ecosystems, litter decomposition is the main process of nutrient cycling, particularly for carbon (C) and nitrogen (N). However, how microplastic pollution could alter wetland litter decomposition has barely been investigated. Therefore, a 100-day lab-scale litter decomposition experiment was conducted using Shengjin Lake wetland soil, which was treated with two types of MPs (polyethylene, PE and polyvinyl chloride, PVC) at three concentrations (0.1%, 0.5%, and 2.5%, w/w), to explore if and how MPs accumulation could affect wetland litter decomposition processes. According to our research, the PE and PVC greatly slowed the decomposition rate of wetland litter. Compared with control treatments, the addition of MPs decreased litter quality (high C:N), reduced litter decomposition-related soil enzyme activity, decreased the diversity of bacteria, and altered microbial community structure and potential functional gene abundance linked to litter decomposition. These findings revealed that MPs could affect the main process of C and N cycling in wetland ecosystems, providing important cues for further research on the wetland ecosystem function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujing Ren
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecosystem Protection and Restoration, School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei, 230601, China
| | - Yueling Qi
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecosystem Protection and Restoration, School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei, 230601, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecosystem Protection and Restoration, School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei, 230601, China
| | - Xinyi Duan
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecosystem Protection and Restoration, School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei, 230601, China
| | - Xiaoxin Ye
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecosystem Protection and Restoration, School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei, 230601, China.
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11
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Xu Y, Ou Q, van der Hoek JP, Liu G, Lompe KM. Photo-oxidation of Micro- and Nanoplastics: Physical, Chemical, and Biological Effects in Environments. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:991-1009. [PMID: 38166393 PMCID: PMC10795193 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c07035] [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: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024]
Abstract
Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) are attracting increasing attention due to their persistence and potential ecological risks. This review critically summarizes the effects of photo-oxidation on the physical, chemical, and biological behaviors of MNPs in aquatic and terrestrial environments. The core of this paper explores how photo-oxidation-induced surface property changes in MNPs affect their adsorption toward contaminants, the stability and mobility of MNPs in water and porous media, as well as the transport of pollutants such as organic pollutants (OPs) and heavy metals (HMs). It then reviews the photochemical processes of MNPs with coexisting constituents, highlighting critical factors affecting the photo-oxidation of MNPs, and the contribution of MNPs to the phototransformation of other contaminants. The distinct biological effects and mechanism of aged MNPs are pointed out, in terms of the toxicity to aquatic organisms, biofilm formation, planktonic microbial growth, and soil and sediment microbial community and function. Furthermore, the research gaps and perspectives are put forward, regarding the underlying interaction mechanisms of MNPs with coexisting natural constituents and pollutants under photo-oxidation conditions, the combined effects of photo-oxidation and natural constituents on the fate of MNPs, and the microbiological effect of photoaged MNPs, especially the biotransformation of pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanghui Xu
- Key
Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Centre
for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, P. R. China
- Section
of Sanitary Engineering, Department of Water Management, Faculty of
Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Delft
University of Technology, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Qin Ou
- Key
Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Centre
for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, P. R. China
- Section
of Sanitary Engineering, Department of Water Management, Faculty of
Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Delft
University of Technology, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Peter van der Hoek
- Section
of Sanitary Engineering, Department of Water Management, Faculty of
Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Delft
University of Technology, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, The Netherlands
- Waternet,
Department Research & Innovation,
P.O. Box 94370, 1090 GJ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gang Liu
- Key
Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Centre
for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, P. R. China
- Section
of Sanitary Engineering, Department of Water Management, Faculty of
Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Delft
University of Technology, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, The Netherlands
- University
of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
| | - Kim Maren Lompe
- Section
of Sanitary Engineering, Department of Water Management, Faculty of
Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Delft
University of Technology, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, The Netherlands
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12
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Zhang X, He X, Pan D, Shi L, Wu Y, Yang Y, Zhu Y, Wang Y, Wang H, Pu L, He S, Meng L, Li J. Effects of thermal exposure to disposable plastic tableware on human gut microbiota and metabolites: A quasi-experimental study. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 462:132800. [PMID: 37866144 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132800] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this quasi-experimental study was to determine the alterations in gut microbiota and metabolism in humans who consume hot food served in disposable plastic tableware (DPT). Participants in the exposure and control groups were provided three hot meals in DPT (n = 30) or non-DPT (n = 30), respectively. After a month of observation, individuals in the exposure group discontinued the three meals provided in DPT (n = 27) for 1 month as the post-exposure group. Fecal samples were collected and tested for microplastics (MPs) detection using LDIR and gut microbiota identification based on the 16 S rRNA. Urine samples were used for metabolite analysis using LC-MS/MS. Results showed that the level of MPs in feces was lower in the post-exposure group compared with the exposure group. Furthermore, the abundance of the phyla Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Bacteroidota in the exposure and post-exposure groups were significantly different compared with the control group. Changes in microbiota abundance and metabolite levels were mainly associated with central nervous system effects, energy metabolism, and inflammation, suggesting that thermal exposure to DPT for 1 month has considerable health effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China
| | - Xiaoxue He
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China
| | - Degong Pan
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China
| | - Liping Shi
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China
| | - Yueping Wu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China
| | - Yue Yang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China
| | - Yongbin Zhu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China
| | - Yanrong Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China
| | - Huihui Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China
| | - Lining Pu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China
| | - Shulan He
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China.
| | - Lingchen Meng
- Department of Sanitary Chemistry, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China.
| | - Jiangping Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Chronic Disease Control, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China.
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13
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Ma L, Zhang L, Zhang S, Zhou M, Huang W, Zou X, He Z, Shu L. Soil protists are more resilient to the combined effect of microplastics and heavy metals than bacterial communities. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:167645. [PMID: 37806593 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167645] [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: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Heavy metals and micro-/nanoplastic pollution seriously threaten the environment and ecosystems. While many studies investigated their effects on diverse microbes, few studies have focused on soil protists, and it is unclear how soil protists respond to the combined effect of micro-/nanoplastics and heavy metals. This study investigated how soil protistan and bacterial communities respond to single or combined copper and micro-/nanoplastics. The bacterial community exhibited an instantaneous response to single copper pollution, whereas the combined pollution resulted in a hysteresis effect on the protistan community. Single and combined pollution inhibited the predation of protists and changed the construction of ecological networks. Though single and combined pollution did not significantly affect the overall community structure, the exposure experiment indicated that combined pollution harmed soil amoeba's fitness. These findings offer valuable new insights into the toxic effects of single and combined pollution of copper and plastics on soil protistan and bacterial communities. Additionally, this study shows that sequencing-based analyses cannot fully reflect pollutants' adverse effects, and both culture-independent and dependent methods are needed to reveal the impact of pollutants on soil microbes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Ma
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Environmental Microbiomics Research Center, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Environmental Microbiomics Research Center, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Siyi Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Environmental Microbiomics Research Center, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Min Zhou
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Environmental Microbiomics Research Center, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Wei Huang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Environmental Microbiomics Research Center, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Xinyue Zou
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Environmental Microbiomics Research Center, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Zhili He
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Environmental Microbiomics Research Center, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Longfei Shu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Environmental Microbiomics Research Center, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China.
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14
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Wang J, Zhang X, Wang H, Liu T, Fayyaz A, Gonzalez NCT, Wang J, Chen X, Zhao J, Yan W. Leguminous crop restores the carbon flow attenuation from nitrogen loading within soil nematode food web in a Camellia oleifera plantation. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 349:119580. [PMID: 37979388 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119580] [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: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Excessive nitrogen (N) loading poses a substantial risk to soil biodiversity and disrupts carbon (C) flows within the soil food web. Intercropping with legumes is often considered a sustainable way to maintain soil N availability and mitigate the associated detrimental effects. However, it remains unclear whether and how legume crops restore energetic attenuation caused by N loading within the soil food web. Here, we conducted a two-year field experiment using randomized block design in a subtropic Camellia oleifera plantation with high wet N deposition. We examined the effects of applying N fertilizers at normal or half levels (168 or 84 kg N ha-1yr-1) and intercropping legumes (Arachis hypogaea or Cassia tora) on the soil nematode food web. We observed that N fertilization suppressed the majority of nematode trophic groups, weakened the stability of food web structure, and diminished the C flows across the bacterial and fungal energy channels. Conversely, intercropping with legumes (particularly with C. tora) bolstered the densities of bacterivore and fungivore nematodes. This enhancement facilitated interactions within the soil micro-food web, and subsequently augmented the C flows within their respective channels. Model predictions suggested that the detrimental effects of N fertilizers on the nematode food web are primarily linked to decreased soil pH resulting from soil N accumulation. Notably, higher soil organic C was found to mitigate these effects. Furthermore, N-enriched legume substrates played a beneficial role in stimulating soil microbial activities and facilitating C flows through bottom-up control. Our findings emphasize the positive impacts of legume crops on mitigating soil biodiversity loss and restoring energetic attenuation within soil food web under N-saturated soil conditions. These findings provide valuable insights for agroforestry management practices aimed at sustaining soil health and ecosystem resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiachen Wang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Applied Technology of Forestry & Ecology in South China, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, 410004, China; Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, 410004, China; Key Laboratory of Agro-ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, 410125, China
| | - Xuyuan Zhang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Applied Technology of Forestry & Ecology in South China, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, 410004, China; College of Forestry, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, 410004, China; College of Landscape Architecture, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, 410004, China.
| | - Hailun Wang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Applied Technology of Forestry & Ecology in South China, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, 410004, China; Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, 410004, China
| | - Ting Liu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Applied Technology of Forestry & Ecology in South China, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, 410004, China; Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, 410004, China
| | - Amna Fayyaz
- Department of Plant Pathalogy, University of California, Davis, 95616, USA
| | - Norela C T Gonzalez
- College of Forestry, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, 410004, China
| | - Jun Wang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Applied Technology of Forestry & Ecology in South China, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, 410004, China; Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, 410004, China
| | - Xiaoyong Chen
- Division of Science, College of Arts and Sciences, Governors State University, University Park, IL, 60484, USA
| | - Jie Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Agro-ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, 410125, China
| | - Wende Yan
- National Engineering Laboratory for Applied Technology of Forestry & Ecology in South China, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, 410004, China; Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, 410004, China.
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15
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Bodor A, Feigl G, Kolossa B, Mészáros E, Laczi K, Kovács E, Perei K, Rákhely G. Soils in distress: The impacts and ecological risks of (micro)plastic pollution in the terrestrial environment. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 269:115807. [PMID: 38091673 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Plastics have revolutionised human industries, thanks to their versatility and durability. However, their extensive use, coupled with inadequate waste disposal, has resulted in plastic becoming ubiquitous in every environmental compartment, posing potential risks to the economy, human health and the environment. Additionally, under natural conditions, plastic waste breaks down into microplastics (MPs<5 mm). The increasing quantity of MPs exerts a significant burden on the soil environment, particularly in agroecosystems, presenting a new stressor for soil-dwelling organisms. In this review, we delve into the effects of MP pollution on soil ecosystems, with a specific attention to (a) MP transport to soils, (b) potential changes of MPs under environmental conditions, (c) and their interaction with the physical, chemical and biological components of the soil. We aim to shed light on the alterations in the distribution, activity, physiology and growth of soil flora, fauna and microorganisms in response to MPs, offering an ecotoxicological perspective for environmental risk assessment of plastics. The effects of MPs are strongly influenced by their intrinsic traits, including polymer type, shape, size and abundance. By exploring the multifaceted interactions between MPs and the soil environment, we provide critical insights into the consequences of plastic contamination. Despite the growing body of research, there remain substantial knowledge gaps regarding the long-term impact of MPs on the soil. Our work underscores the importance of continued research efforts and the adoption of standardised approaches to address plastic pollution and ensure a sustainable future for our planet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Attila Bodor
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary; Institute of Biophysics, HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Gábor Feigl
- Department of Plant Biology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Bálint Kolossa
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Enikő Mészáros
- Department of Plant Biology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Krisztián Laczi
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Etelka Kovács
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Katalin Perei
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Gábor Rákhely
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary; Institute of Biophysics, HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
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16
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Xiang Y, Peñuelas J, Sardans J, Liu Y, Yao B, Li Y. Effects of microplastics exposure on soil inorganic nitrogen: A comprehensive synthesis. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 460:132514. [PMID: 37708652 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics, a growing environmental concern, impact soil inorganic nitrogen (N) transformation, specifically affecting water-extractable nitrate N (NO3--N) and ammonium N (NH4+-N). However, inconsistencies among relevant findings necessitate a systematic analysis. Accordingly, the present meta-analysis addresses these discrepancies by evaluating the effects of microplastics on soil inorganic N and identifying key influencing factors. Our meta-analysis of 216 paired observations from 47 studies demonstrates microplastics exposure causes an overall significant reduction of 7.89% in soil NO3--N concentration, but has no significant impact on NH4+-N concentration. Subgroup analysis further revealed effects of microplastics on soil inorganic N were modulated by microplastics characteristics, experimental conditions (exposure time, experimental temperature, plant effects), and soil properties (soil texture, initial soil pH, initial soil organic carbon, soil total N concentration). We found that microplastics exposure above 27 ℃ enhances soil NO3--N concentration, a finding linked to specific soil properties and conditions, underscoring the impacts of global warming. Importantly, the microplastics polymer type was the most influential predictor of effects on soil NO3--N concentration, while soil NH4+-N concentration was primarily affected by soil texture and microplastics type. These findings illuminate the complex effects of microplastics on soil inorganic N, informing soil management amid increasing microplastics pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangzhou Xiang
- School of Geography and Resources, Guizhou Education University, Guiyang 550018, China
| | - Josep Peñuelas
- CSIC Global Ecology Unit, CREAF-CSIC-UAB, 08193 Bellaterra, Catalonia, Spain; CREAF - Ecological and Forestry Applications Research Centre, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Jordi Sardans
- CSIC Global Ecology Unit, CREAF-CSIC-UAB, 08193 Bellaterra, Catalonia, Spain; CREAF - Ecological and Forestry Applications Research Centre, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Ying Liu
- School of Biological Sciences, Guizhou Education University, Guiyang 550018, China
| | - Bin Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Tree Genetics and Breeding, Institute of Ecology Conservation and Restoration, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing 100091, China.
| | - Yuan Li
- The State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems of Lanzhou University, National Field Scientific Observation and Research Station of Grassland Agro-Ecosystems in Gansu Qingyang, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou 730020, China.
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17
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Zhang Y, Yang S, Zeng Y, Chen Y, Liu H, Yan X, Pu S. A new quantitative insight: Interaction of polyethylene microplastics with soil - microbiome - crop. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 460:132302. [PMID: 37647663 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
In this study, the interaction between primary/secondary PE MPs and soil - microbiome - crop complex system and PE MPs enrichment behavior in crops were studied by using the self-developed quantitative characterization method of Eu-MPs and in situ zymography. The results demonstrated for the first time the enrichment effect of micron-sized PE (> 10 µm) in crops, manifested as roots>leaves>stems. Primary PE MPs significantly increased soil TN, TC, SOM and β-glu activity and inhibited Phos activity. Age-PE MPs significantly reduced soil TN, TP, β-glu and Phos activities and also have significant inhibitory effects on plant height, stem diameter, and leaf dry weight of maize. Age-PE MPs significantly affected soil microbial diversity, mainly caused by bacterial genera such as UTCFX1, Sphingomonas, Subgroup-6 and Gemmatimonas. Age-PE MPs also affected some metabolism related to microbial community composition and maize growth, including Glycerolipid, Citrate cycle (TCA cycle), C5-Branched dibasic acid, Arginine and proline, Tyrosine metabolism, pentose phosphate pathway, Valine, leucine and isoleucine biosynthesis. These research results indicated that the PE MPs, which are widely present in farmland soils, can affect crop growth, soil microbial community and metabolic function after aging, thus affecting agroecosystems and terrestrial biodiversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection (Chengdu University of Technology), 1#, Dongsanlu, Erxianqiao, Chengdu 610059, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Shuo Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection (Chengdu University of Technology), 1#, Dongsanlu, Erxianqiao, Chengdu 610059, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Yuping Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection (Chengdu University of Technology), 1#, Dongsanlu, Erxianqiao, Chengdu 610059, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Yi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection (Chengdu University of Technology), 1#, Dongsanlu, Erxianqiao, Chengdu 610059, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Hanshuang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection (Chengdu University of Technology), 1#, Dongsanlu, Erxianqiao, Chengdu 610059, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Xinyao Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection (Chengdu University of Technology), 1#, Dongsanlu, Erxianqiao, Chengdu 610059, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Shengyan Pu
- State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection (Chengdu University of Technology), 1#, Dongsanlu, Erxianqiao, Chengdu 610059, Sichuan, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, PR China.
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18
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Pang X, Chen C, Sun J, Zhan H, Xiao Y, Cai J, Yu X, Liu Y, Long L, Yang G. Effects of complex pollution by microplastics and heavy metals on soil physicochemical properties and microbial communities under alternate wetting and drying conditions. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 458:131989. [PMID: 37453357 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) broadly coexist with heavy metals (HMs) in soil, Cd and Cu are the main types of soil HMs contamination, in addition to polystyrene (PS), which is also widely present in the environment and prone to aging. However, differences in the effects of MPs and HMs on soil properties and microbial characteristics under alternating wetting and drying (AWD) remain unclear. Thus, this study investigated the effects of four conventional (0.2% (w/w)) and aged MPs in indoor incubation experiments on soil properties under desiccation (Dry) and AWD. We found that with the influence of the "enzyme lock" theory, the coexistence of MPs and HMs under Dry had a more pronounced effect on soil physicochemical properties, whereas the effects on soil enzyme activity under AWD were more significant. In addition, MPs decreased the available Cu by 4.27% and, conversely, increased the available Cd by 8.55%. Under Dry, MPs affected microbial function mainly through physicochemical properties, with a contribution of approximately 72.4%, whereas under AWD enzyme activity and HMs were significantly greater, with increases of 28.2% and 7.9%, respectively. These results indicate that the effects of MPs on environmental variation and microbial profiles under AWD conditions differed significantly from those under Dry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinghua Pang
- College of Environmental Sciences, Sichuan Agricultural University, No. 211 Huimin Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu 611130, China; Key Lab of Agricultural Environment Engineering of Sichuan Provincial Education Department, No. 211 Huimin Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Chao Chen
- College of Environmental Sciences, Sichuan Agricultural University, No. 211 Huimin Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu 611130, China; Key Lab of Agricultural Environment Engineering of Sichuan Provincial Education Department, No. 211 Huimin Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Jie Sun
- Appraisal Center for Environment and Engineering, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, No.15 Shixing Street, Shijingshan District, Beijing 100041, China
| | - Haiquan Zhan
- College of Environmental Sciences, Sichuan Agricultural University, No. 211 Huimin Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu 611130, China; Key Lab of Agricultural Environment Engineering of Sichuan Provincial Education Department, No. 211 Huimin Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Yinlong Xiao
- College of Environmental Sciences, Sichuan Agricultural University, No. 211 Huimin Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu 611130, China; Key Lab of Agricultural Environment Engineering of Sichuan Provincial Education Department, No. 211 Huimin Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Junzhuo Cai
- College of Environmental Sciences, Sichuan Agricultural University, No. 211 Huimin Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu 611130, China; Key Lab of Agricultural Environment Engineering of Sichuan Provincial Education Department, No. 211 Huimin Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Xiaoyu Yu
- College of Environmental Sciences, Sichuan Agricultural University, No. 211 Huimin Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu 611130, China; Key Lab of Agricultural Environment Engineering of Sichuan Provincial Education Department, No. 211 Huimin Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Yan Liu
- College of Environmental Sciences, Sichuan Agricultural University, No. 211 Huimin Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu 611130, China; Key Lab of Agricultural Environment Engineering of Sichuan Provincial Education Department, No. 211 Huimin Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Lulu Long
- College of Environmental Sciences, Sichuan Agricultural University, No. 211 Huimin Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu 611130, China; Key Lab of Agricultural Environment Engineering of Sichuan Provincial Education Department, No. 211 Huimin Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu 611130, China.
| | - Gang Yang
- College of Environmental Sciences, Sichuan Agricultural University, No. 211 Huimin Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu 611130, China; Key Lab of Agricultural Environment Engineering of Sichuan Provincial Education Department, No. 211 Huimin Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu 611130, China.
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19
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Wu T, Zhong L, Ding J, Pang JW, Sun HJ, Ding MQ, Ren NQ, Yang SS. Microplastics perturb nitrogen removal, microbial community and metabolism mechanism in biofilm system. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 458:131971. [PMID: 37413798 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are a significant component of global pollution and cause widespread concern, particularly in wastewater treatment plants. While understanding the impact of MPs on nutrient removal and potential metabolism in biofilm systems is limited. This work investigated the impact of polystyrene (PS) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) on the performance of biofilm systems. The results revealed that at concentrations of 100 and 1000 μg/L, both PS and PET had almost no effect on the removal of ammonia nitrogen, phosphorus, and chemical oxygen demand, but reduced the removal of total nitrogen by 7.40-16.6%. PS and PET caused cell and membrane damage, as evidenced by increases in reactive oxygen species and lactate dehydrogenase to 136-355% and 144-207% of the control group. Besides, metagenomic analysis demonstrated both PS and PET changed the microbial structure and caused functional differences. Some important genes in nitrite oxidation (e.g. nxrA), denitrification (e.g. narB, nirABD, norB, and nosZ), and electron production process (e.g. mqo, sdh, and mdh) were restrained, meanwhile, species contribution to nitrogen-conversion genes was altered, therefore disturbing nitrogen-conversion metabolism. This work contributes to evaluating the potential risks of biofilm systems exposed to PS and PET, maintaining high nitrogen removal and system stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Le Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Jie Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
| | - Ji-Wei Pang
- China Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection Group, CECEP Talroad Technology Co., Ltd., Beijing 100096, China
| | - Han-Jun Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Meng-Qi Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Nan-Qi Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Shan-Shan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
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