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Microplastic Associated Microorganisms: Isolation, Identification and Assessment of Biofilm-Based Degradation Potential
Summary
Scientists found naturally occurring bacteria and fungi living on microplastics in polluted soil and water that can actually break down these tiny plastic particles over time. This matters because microplastics are showing up everywhere—including in our food, water, and bodies—and these microbe-based cleanup methods could offer a more natural, sustainable way to reduce plastic pollution before it accumulates further in our environment and, potentially, our health.
Microplastics have become major environmental contaminants because of their persistence and extensive distribution in both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. The present study aimed to isolate and identify microorganisms associated with microplastics and to evaluate their potential for biofilm-mediated plastic degradation. Soil and water samples were collected from plastic-polluted sites, and microplastics were extracted using density separation followed by hydrogen peroxide digestion. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirmed the presence of polyolefin-based microplastics in the collected samples. Associated bacterial and fungal isolates were characterized through morphological and biochemical analyses. The biofilm-forming ability of the isolates was assessed using Congo Red Agar and tube assay methods. Furthermore, selected microbial isolates demonstrated noticeable plastic degradation potential based on weight loss measurements of treated plastic samples. The findings of this study emphasize the significant role of indigenous microorganisms in the sustainable bioremediation of microplastic pollution.