Exploring the Synergistic Effects of Agitation on the Interaction Between Nanoparticles of Polyethylene and Benzophenone in Microalgae <i>Tetraselmis</i> sp.

Microalgae play a crucial role in the aquatic food chain, climate change mitigation and economic applications. Several factors, such as light, temperature, nutrients, agitation and pollutants, can significantly influence their growth. In SPIE of its importance, there is a lack of research concerning the effects of agitation on the interaction between different pollutants and phytoplanktonic microorganisms. This study aimed to investigate the impact of agitation on the growth and cellular response of Tetraselmis sp. exposed to BP3 and polyethylene nanoparticles. Results showed that agitation significantly inhibited microalgae growth, in the presence of BP3 and nanoplastic. Considering photosynthetic pigments, there was a reduction in the concentration of Chl a under agitation, regardless of contaminants. Furthermore, Chl b concentrations remained unchanged across all experimental conditions. Additionally, a noticeable increase in carotenoid levels was observed in groups with higher concentration of BP3 (with agitation) and BP3 + NP (with or without agitation). An elevation in SOD and CAT enzyme activity was observed, indicating oxidative stress. But agitation did not impact MDA levels. These findings highlight the importance of considering agitation when evaluating the interaction of pollutants with planktonic organisms in toxicological studies, enhancing the understanding of environmental stressors in natural ecosystems.