We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Spatial distribution and impacts of microplastics on potato growth and yield in agroecosystems in Sialkot, Pakistan
Summary
Soil and plant samples from 10 agricultural fields in Sialkot, Pakistan showed widespread microplastic contamination dominated by LDPE (22%), HDPE (18%), and polystyrene (12%), with potato yield negatively correlated with MP contamination levels and reduced uptake of zinc, copper, nickel, and sodium.
Microplastic (MP) pollution is a growing concern, yet its impacts on agroecosystems remain poorly understood. This study investigates MP contamination in the agroecosystems of Sialkot, Pakistan, and its potential effects on the growth, physio-biochemical attributes, and yield of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.). Plant and soil samples from 10 diverse agricultural fields were collected and analyzed for MP contamination. FTIR analysis revealed widespread MP presence in the soil across all sites. Fragment, film, and fiber types dominated, with low-density polyethylene (22.42 %), high-density polyethylene (18.05 %), and polystyrene (12.3 %) being the most prevalent polymers. A significant variation in plant growth parameters was observed. The number of tubers per plant also exhibited a significant difference, as evidenced by the decline in potato yield with increasing levels of MP contamination. Potato yield showed a negative correlation with MP contamination levels. The nutrients (Zn, Cu, Ni, and Na) uptake in plant shoots was also observed to be decreased except for Mg and Mn at all sites. This study showed that MPs are contaminating our agricultural lands and they may affect growth and yield of potato. Additional research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and develop mitigation strategies to improve agricultural productivity and food security.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Quantification and characterization of microplastics (MPs) pollution in peri-uburban agricultural lands of Lahore, Pakistan
Microplastics were quantified and characterized in peri-urban agricultural soil samples from Lahore, Pakistan, collected from four sites, finding widespread MP contamination linked to irrigation with wastewater and proximity to urban plastic use.
Presence of Microplastics in Water, Soil, Organic Fertilizer, and Potato Plants on Potato Plantations
Researchers surveyed potato farms and found microplastics present in the irrigation water, soil, organic fertilizer, and even the potato plants themselves. Fibers were the most common shape, making up 86% of particles found, with PET and polyethylene being the dominant plastic types. The findings suggest that microplastic contamination in agricultural systems could affect both crop quality and human health through the food chain.
Impact of Microplastic on RoadsideVegetable Cultivation: A Case Studyof Agricultural Farmland
Researchers measured microplastic contamination in roadside vegetable farms in Multan, Pakistan, finding that plots closer to roads had up to 3,540 microplastic particles per kilogram of soil and that vegetables grown there showed reduced chlorophyll and antioxidant levels, indicating stress from microplastic exposure.
Tissue infiltration of polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene microplastics in Solanum tuberosum L. influences plant growth and yield
Researchers applied polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene microplastics to soil growing two potato cultivars and found that the particles infiltrated plant tissues including shoots, leaves, and tubers. Higher microplastic concentrations significantly reduced germination rates, growth metrics, and nutrient content, with polystyrene causing the most severe negative effects. The study demonstrates that microplastics can be taken up by food crops and accumulate in the edible portions of the plant.
Identification and Quantification of Microplastics Contamination in Potato from Malang Raya, Indonesia
Researchers investigated microplastic contamination across potato farming in Indonesia, testing seedlings, soil, fertilizer, irrigation water, and harvested potatoes. They found a total of 104 microplastic particles across all farm components, with fibers and fragments being the most common types. The study suggests that microplastics can enter the food chain through agricultural production, raising concerns about contamination in staple crops.