We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Combined effects of microplastics and other contaminants on earthworms: A critical review
No summary available — this paper's abstract is not included in the open metadata provided by the publisher. Learn why →
More Papers Like This
Effects of Micro-Nanoplastics Exposure to Earthworms in the Soil System
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers investigated how micro- and nanoplastic exposure affects earthworms in soil systems, examining toxicity mechanisms and interactions with co-occurring heavy metals and other contaminants. The findings indicate that MNP contamination can impair soil productivity and earthworm health, threatening the foundation of terrestrial food webs.
The Possibility of Microplastic Removal by Earthworms and Comparing With Conventional Chemical Removal Methods (A Global and Deeply Systematic Review)
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers reviewed chemical and biological strategies for microplastic removal, finding that certain earthworm species can absorb and decompose microplastic particles within weeks, offering a potentially low-cost biological alternative to conventional chemical removal methods.
The Potential Concentration-Dependent Effects of Tire Microplastics on the Earthworm Eisenia fetida
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers exposing earthworms (Eisenia fetida) to tire-derived microplastics at four concentrations found significant increases in antioxidant enzyme activity — including catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase — indicating oxidative stress and immune system activation at environmentally relevant exposure levels.
Meta-analysis reveals contrasting effects of biodegradable and conventional microplastics on earthworm fitness, physiology, and gut microbiota
AI summary Read the abstract
A large analysis of over 100 studies found that both regular plastic pollution and "biodegradable" plastics harm earthworms, shrinking their survival, growth, and gut bacteria, while causing cell damage from oxidative stress. The key takeaway: switching to biodegradable plastics doesn't actually protect these important soil creatures, so it's not a guilt-free fix. Since earthworms keep soil healthy for growing our food, this matters for the whole food chain, including us, and it's a reminder that "biodegradable" labels don't always mean "harmless."
Toxicological Effects of Micro and Nanoplastics on Soil Fauna: Current Research, Advances, and Future Outlook
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers reviewed the toxic effects of microplastics and nanoplastics on soil-dwelling organisms such as earthworms and insects, finding that these particles can disrupt reproduction, growth, and survival, with potential ripple effects for soil health and food production.
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.