Microplastics as Soil Emerging Pollutants: Sublethal Earthworms Answers From Poly(propene) Photodegraded

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of polypropene (PP) microplastic (MP) on the oligochaeta species Eisenia andrei exposed to different soil concentrations over 14 day period, to comprehend the effect on the species. Theoretical Framework: This topic presents the main concepts and theories underpinning research in microplastics and their biological impacts, providing a solid basis for understanding the histological, cytological and morphometric effects on E. andrei. Method: The methodology adopted for this research comprised acquisition of naturally photodegraded polypropylene and adult E. Andrei specimens, which were cultivated in soils contaminated with varying concentrations PP. A control group was maintained for comparison. Analyses included assessments of gastrointestinal content; morphometric, cytological and histological alterations. Data collection was carried out through statistical analysis to compare group means and identify significant differences. Results and Discussion: The results obtained revealed 50% mortality and a reduction in organism mass at highest concentration (5 g/kg). In other concentrations (2 and 3g/kg), alterations such as edema, inflammatory response, villi bleeding, and rupture were shown. Alterations in morphometric analysis also were observed with the presence of increased lumen diameter and rupture of digestive tract in 5 g/kg concentration. In cytologic analysis, it showed intense cytological vacuolization in 3 and 5 g/kg. In the discussion section, these results are contextualized considering the theoretical framework, highlighting the implications and relationships identified. Possible discrepancies and limitations of the study are also considered in this section. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research are discussed, providing insights into how the results can be applied or influence practices in the field of environmental management. These implications could encompass ecotoxicology, environmental sciences and ecology. Originality/Value: This study contributes to literature by validating the importance of the impacts and effects of microplastics in ecosystems. The relevance and value of this research lies in its contribution to understanding environmental liabilities and promoting environmental safety.