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Calendula officinalis L. Tolerance Response to Polystyrene Microplastics and Galaxolide by Seed Germination, as an Ornamental Plant
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Calendula officinalis seedlings showed resistance to polystyrene micro- and nanoplastics as well as the fragrance chemical galaxolide, with both PS particle types actually stimulating sprout growth by 24–74% and triggering upregulation of antioxidant enzymes. Understanding which plants tolerate and potentially phytoremediate microplastic-contaminated soils is valuable for designing green remediation strategies for agricultural and urban land affected by plastic pollution.
Polystyrene (PS) and galaxolide (HHCB) are common pollutants in the environment. The individual toxic effects of both pollutants have been studied, but not much research has been done on the combined effects of the two. Calendula officinalis L. (C. officinalis), as an ornamental plant, has some potential for pollution remediation. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of polystyrene microplastics (PSMPs), polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNPs), and HHCB on C. officinalis seed germination and seedling growth. The results showed that C. officinalis seedlings were resistant to PS and HHCB and were able to regulate the antioxidant system well against the stress of polystyrene microplastics and HHCB. PSMPs and PSNPs significantly promoted the growth of C. officinalis sprouts, increasing growth rates by 23.9%—37.5% And 59.1%—73.7%, respectively. Additionally, PSMPs and PSNPs stimulated the plant’s antioxidant enzyme system, significantly increasing SOD activity and MDA content. Notably, under HHCB stress (1—50 mg/L), C. officinalis exhibited similar physiological responses, with SOD enzyme activity significantly increased by 72.3%—76.8% And MDA content significantly reduced by 41.7%—59.0%. The study provides a reliable basis for future joint pollution remediation of polystyrene microplastics and HHCB.
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