Effects of microplastic-antibiotic composite pollution on photosynthetic responses in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)

Growth and physiological–biochemical characteristics of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) in the presence of different microplastics

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"Soil culture experiments showed that PVC, PE, and PS microplastics at agronomically relevant concentrations reduced the root biomass of cucumbers, elevated zinc uptake, and altered antioxidant enzyme gene expression and photosynthetic efficiency. These results indicate that microplastic contamination in agricultural soils can impair crop physiology, raising concerns about both food security and the transfer of microplastic-associated stressors through the food chain to humans."

Advances in Physiological and Ecological Effects of Microplastic on Crop

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Researchers reviewed how microplastics accumulate in crops — entering through roots and leaves and reaching edible parts — and found they reduce germination, inhibit photosynthesis, and lower crop yields, raising concerns about plastic contamination in the food we eat.

Effects of antibiotics on aquatic plant growth and removal of antibiotics by plants in water containing microplastics

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Researchers found that certain aquatic plants, especially Canna indica (a common ornamental plant), can help remove antibiotic pollution from water, even when microplastics are also present, though the plastics do make the cleanup somewhat less effective (10-20% weaker). This matters because antibiotics and microplastics are increasingly showing up together in rivers and lakes, and finding cost-effective, natural ways to filter them out could help protect drinking water sources and reduce the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the environment.

Effects of Microplastic on the Growth and Nutrient Absorption of Microalgae

Single and Joint Effects of Imidacloprid and Microplastics on Lettuce Growth

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Researchers exposed lettuce to LDPE microplastics and imidacloprid pesticide individually and in combination, finding co-exposure caused a 68% reduction in fresh weight — far greater than pesticide alone — with effects including leaf browning, stunted roots, and reduced chlorophyll despite unchanged imidacloprid uptake.