Metagenomics Reveals the Influence of Smaller Microplastics on Microbial Communities in Coastal Sediments

Impact of microplastics and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons on microbial community in marine sediments

Microbial Relationship of Marine Microplastics

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Researchers examined how microplastics in the ocean interact with microbial communities, finding that plastic surfaces attract and harbor unique assemblages of bacteria — a concern because these 'plastisphere' microbes can spread pathogens and antibiotic-resistant genes through marine food chains.

Research Progress on Sources and EcologicalEffects of Microplastics in Sediments

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This review synthesizes research on the sources and ecological effects of microplastics in sediments, tracing transport pathways from terrestrial runoff through freshwater systems to marine sediment sinks and documenting impacts on benthic organisms and ecosystem function. Sediments serve as long-term reservoirs of microplastic pollution, making sediment ecology a critical lens for understanding cumulative environmental burden and food chain exposure risks posed by plastic debris.

Marine Microplastics: Abundance, Ecotoxic Consequences of Associated Anthropogenic Contaminants and Interactions with Microorganisms

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Researchers reviewed the rapid growth of microplastic pollution in the ocean, highlighting how these particles accumulate toxic chemicals and interact with microorganisms in ways that amplify their ecological harm. As plastic production continues to rise, the marine food web faces increasing exposure to contaminated microplastics that can ultimately reach humans through seafood.

Microplastics in Soils and Sediment: Sources, Methodologies, and Interactions with Microorganisms

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Microplastics in soils and sediments interact with microorganisms in complex ways, affecting microbial community structure and facilitating the spread of antibiotic resistance genes. These interactions highlight that microplastic pollution poses ecological risks beyond physical contamination, potentially disrupting soil health and agricultural systems.