We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Recent advances towards micro(nano)plastics research in wetland ecosystems: A systematic review on sources, removal, and ecological impacts
AI summary Read the abstract
Wetland ecosystems act as important sinks for micro- and nanoplastics, which were found to cause ecotoxicological effects on wetland plants, animals, and microbial communities, including shifts in microbial composition relevant to pollutant removal. Micro/nanoplastics exposure also affected conventional pollutant removal efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions from wetland systems.
In recent years, microplastics/nanoplastics (MPs/NPs) have received substantial attention worldwide owing to their wide applications, persistence, and potential risks. Wetland systems are considered to be an important "sink" for MPs/NPs, which can have potential ecological and environmental effects on the ecosystem. This paper provides a comprehensive and systematic review of the sources and characteristics of MPs/NPs in wetland ecosystems, together with a detailed analysis of MP/NP removal and associated mechanisms in wetland systems. In addition, the eco-toxicological effects of MPs/NPs in wetland ecosystems, including plant, animal, and microbial responses, were reviewed with a focus on changes in the microbial community relevant to pollutant removal. The effects of MPs/NPs exposure on conventional pollutant removal by wetland systems and their greenhouse gas emissions are also discussed. Finally, current knowledge gaps and future recommendations are presented, including the ecological impact of exposure to various MPs/NPs on wetland ecosystems and the ecological risks of MPs/NPs associated with the migration of different contaminants and antibiotic resistance genes. This work will facilitate a better understanding of the sources, characteristics, and environmental and ecological impacts of MPs/NPs in wetland ecosystems, and provide a new perspective to promote development in this field.
More Papers Like This
Source, fate, toxicity, and remediation of micro-plastic in wetlands: A critical review
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers reviewed how microplastics enter, accumulate in, and damage natural wetlands — ecosystems that filter water and support biodiversity — finding that while wetlands may actually trap plastic particles like a sink, the resulting contamination poses serious ecological risks that are still poorly understood.
Non-negligible impact of microplastics on wetland ecosystems
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examines microplastic pollution in wetland ecosystems, which sit between land and water and act as natural filters. Microplastics in wetlands come from sewage, agricultural runoff, and atmospheric deposition, with polyethylene and polypropylene fibers and fragments being the most common types found. The paper highlights that microplastics can harm wetland plants, animals, and microbes, and may even increase greenhouse gas emissions by serving as an unusual carbon source for soil microorganisms.
Micro- and nanoplastic pollution in wetland ecosystems: Ecological risks, health implications, and mitigation strategies toward a One Health future.
AI summary Read the abstract
This review paper summarizes existing research on tiny plastic particles, called micro- and nanoplastics, building up in wetlands. It explains how wetlands trap these particles, which can change over time, mix with other pollutants, and move through food chains, potentially affecting wildlife, livestock, and human health.
Effects of microplastics on carbon and nitrogen cycling in coastal wetlands: A critical meta-analysis
AI summary
This meta-analysis of over 1,000 data points from 34 studies found that microplastics significantly altered certain carbon and nitrogen cycling indicators in coastal wetlands under laboratory conditions, but tidal simulation experiments more representative of real environments showed no significant effects. The findings caution against over-interpreting lab results and highlight that tidal dynamics and vegetation factors are often missing from experimental designs.
Nanoplastics Disturb Nitrogen Removal in Constructed Wetlands: Responses of Microbes and Macrophytes
AI summary Read the abstract
The impact of nanosized plastics on nitrogen removal in constructed wetlands was investigated by examining microbial community responses and denitrification processes. Nanoplastics disturbed biological nitrogen removal in the wetland system, with microorganisms showing altered community structure and reduced denitrification efficiency.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.