We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Microbial Community Dynamics and Biogeochemical Cycling in Microplastic-Contaminated Sediment
Summary
This review summarizes current research on how microplastics alter microbial communities and nutrient cycling processes in sediments at the bottom of water bodies. Researchers found that the effects depend on the type of plastic, exposure duration, and the specific sediment environment, with biodegradable plastics causing the most significant changes. The study highlights that microplastics in sediments can reshape the microbial ecosystems that drive essential biogeochemical processes like carbon and nitrogen cycling.
Sediments are important repositories for microplastics (MPs) which exhibit higher microbial community richness and greater diversity than corresponding aqueous phases. Recently, the effects of MPs on microorganisms in sediments have received widespread attention. This review summarizes current knowledge on how MPs alter microbial diversity, composition, function, and biogeochemical cycling in sedimentary environments. The impacts of MPs on microorganisms in sediments can be affected by several factors, including MP type, the sedimentary environment, exposure time, and exposure concentration. Generally, biodegradable MPs cause more significant changes to the microbial community structure in sediments due to degradability and high bioavailability. Short-term exposure to MPs may enhance microbial diversity, and long-term exposure may lead to a reduction in diversity. High concentrations cause more serious impacts on microbial diversity than low concentrations. MPs mainly interfere with cycles of carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur in the sedimentary environment by changing microbial community structure, enzyme activity, and gene abundance. In conclusion, key research gaps are pinpointed, and future research directions presented. This review provides valuable insights into the health risks and ecological responses of MPs in sedimentary environments.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Effects of microplastics on nitrogen and phosphorus cycles and microbial communities in sediments
Researchers found that PVC, PLA, and polypropylene microplastics altered nitrogen and phosphorus cycling in freshwater sediments by shifting microbial community composition, with effects varying by polymer type and biodegradability.
Unveiling the impact of microplastics with distinct polymer types and concentrations on tidal sediment microbiome and nitrogen cycling
Researchers tested how five different types of microplastics at varying concentrations affect microbial communities and nitrogen cycling in tidal sediments over 30 days. They found that microplastics generally reduced microbial diversity and enhanced nitrogen fixation, with biodegradable PLA plastic showing concentration-dependent effects. The study suggests that microplastic contamination in coastal sediments can disrupt important nutrient cycling processes driven by microorganisms.
Microplastics affect organic nitrogen in sediment: The response of organic nitrogen mineralization to microbes and benthic animals
Researchers investigated how different types of microplastics affect organic nitrogen cycling in sediments, measuring the responses of key nitrogen-transforming microorganisms. They found microplastics alter the composition of organic nitrogen and suppress certain nitrogen cycling processes.
Polyethylene microplastics interfere with the nutrient cycle in water-plant-sediment systems
Researchers studied how polyethylene microplastics affect nutrient cycling in freshwater systems containing submerged plants and sediment. They found that the microplastics significantly reduced nitrogen and carbon content in plant leaves and disrupted the microbial communities in sediment responsible for nutrient processing. The study demonstrates that microplastic pollution can interfere with fundamental biogeochemical cycles that maintain the health of aquatic ecosystems.
Can Microplastic Pollution Change Important Aquatic Bacterial Communities?
Microplastics in coastal sediments can change the composition of important bacterial communities that cycle nutrients and maintain ecosystem health. Microplastic-associated bacteria differ significantly from natural sediment bacteria, with potential consequences for the chemical processes these communities perform.