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Influence of Polyethylene Terephthalate, Polyvinyl Chloride, and Low-Density Polyethylene Microplastics on Plant Growth Physiology in Three Model Crops
Summary
Tiny plastic particles from pollution (called microplastics) can build up in soil and harm crops like chickpeas, oats, and flax—stunting their growth, damaging their leaves, and reducing how well they sprout, with plastic from bottles (PET) causing the most damage. Since these crops are part of our food supply, this research is a reminder that plastic pollution in farmland soil could eventually affect crop yields and the quality of food we eat.
Microplastic (MP) pollution in terrestrial ecosystems is an emerging concern because of its adverse effects on soil health and crop productivity. This study assessed the phytotoxic effects of three polymers, Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) on seed germination, early growth, and physiology of Cicer arietinum, Avena sativa, and Linum usitatissimum. Laboratory and pot experiments using graded microplastic concentrations showed clear dose-dependent responses. Higher microplastic levels reduced germination, seedling vigor, root and shoot length, and biomass, with PET causing the greatest inhibition, followed by PVC. LDPE slightly promoted root growth at low doses but became inhibitory at higher concentrations. Chlorophyll declined at elevated MP levels, indicating impaired photosynthesis, while electrolyte leakage suggested membrane damage, especially under LDPE exposure. Overall toxicity ranked PET > PVC > LDPE, underscoring the risks of microplastics to crops and agroecosystem sustainability.