We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Spatiotemporal variations of epimicroplastic harmful algae and their driving factors in four semi-enclosed bays of China
Summary
Researchers characterized harmful algae colonizing microplastic surfaces (epimicroplastic harmful algae) in four semi-enclosed Chinese bays across seasons and locations, analyzing drivers of their spatiotemporal variation. They found that microplastic type, surface area, and nutrient levels strongly influenced which harmful algal species colonized plastic debris and where blooms could be triggered.
Though unconfirmed, several studies consistently suggest that microplastics (MPs) may expand the spatial distribution of harmful algae and trigger harmful algal blooms (HABs). However, current understanding of the species composition and spatiotemporal variations of epimicroplastic harmful algae (EHA) remains insufficient, limiting in-depth exploration of MP-EHA interactions and their environmental implications. Therefore, we conducted field investigations and cultivation experiments across four Chinese bays. Results revealed 41 EHA species were identified, predominantly dinoflagellates and diatoms (e.g., Karlodinium veneficum, Prorocentrum obtusidens, Pseudo-nitzschia pungens). 33 %-60 % of EHA species overlapped with planktonic counterparts, implying partial EHA may derive from external sources. Field investigations showed dinoflagellates had significant positive correlations with nutrients, while cultivation experiments revealed temperature and nutrients as significant drivers of EHA communities-with some dinoflagellates correlating positively with temperature, indicating EHA may pose higher environmental risks in warm, nutrient-rich seasons. Notably, the EHA included toxic species rarely reported in China but frequently associated with global HABs (e.g., Amphidinium carterae, Margalefidinium polykrikoides, Fibrocapsa japonica), highlighting the need for continuous monitoring of their dynamics in Chinese waters. This study improves understanding of EHA composition and dynamics, offers critical insights into forecasting HABs, and provides practical value for mitigating aquaculture and human health risks.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Microplastics primarily provide habitats for benthic microalgae in Fujian coastal waters of China
Researchers analyzed epimicroplastic microalgae (EMP-MA) communities colonizing microplastics in three bays of Fujian Province, China, finding that benthic microalgae dominated EMP-MA communities despite being underrepresented in surrounding planktonic communities. The results suggest that microplastics primarily serve as habitats for benthic microalgae and may expand their spatial distribution beyond typical bottom-dwelling zones.
A new look at the potential role of marine plastic debris as a global vector of toxic benthic algae
Researchers examined marine plastic debris as a global vector for toxic benthic algae, finding that floating plastics provide colonization surfaces that may expand harmful algal distribution and intensify toxic blooms across ocean regions.
Harmful algae and pathogens on plastics in three mediterranean coastal lagoons
Researchers studied microplastics and macroplastic debris in three French Mediterranean coastal lagoons and found high-diversity biofilm communities including harmful algae and bacterial pathogens colonizing plastic surfaces, demonstrating that plastics can act as vectors for harmful microorganisms in sensitive coastal ecosystems.
Colonization Characteristics of Bacterial Communities on Plastic Debris Influenced by Environmental Factors and Polymer Types in the Haihe Estuary of Bohai Bay, China
Bacterial communities colonizing plastic debris in the Haihe Estuary of Bohai Bay, China, were shaped by both environmental factors (season, salinity, temperature) and the type of plastic polymer, with distinct microbial assemblages forming on different plastic surfaces. The results demonstrate that the "plastisphere" in estuarine environments is a dynamically structured microbial habitat.
Toxic plastisphere: How the characteristics of plastic particles can affect colonization of harmful microalgae and adsorption of phycotoxins
Researchers found that microplastic particles in water can serve as surfaces for harmful algae to grow on and for algae-produced toxins to stick to. Smaller and sun-aged microplastic particles absorbed more toxins than larger or newer ones, meaning the most common microplastics in the environment may carry the greatest risk. This matters for human health because contaminated microplastics could transfer harmful algal toxins into seafood and drinking water.