We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Interactions Between Microorganisms and Marine Microplastics: A Call for Research
AI summary Read the abstract
This commentary calls for dedicated research into the interactions between marine microorganisms and microplastics, arguing that microplastics may serve as novel substrates for microbial colonization, alter microbial community composition, and facilitate the transport of pathogens and antibiotic resistance genes in ocean environments. Researchers identify the microbial ecology of the 'plastisphere' as a critically understudied dimension of marine plastic pollution.
Abstract Synthetic thermoplastics constitute the majority by percentage of anthropogenic debris entering the Earth’s oceans. Microplastics (≤5-mm fragments) are rapidly emerging pollutants in marine ecosystems that may transport potentially toxic chemicals into macrobial food webs. This commentary evaluates our knowledge concerning the interactions between marine organisms and microplastics and identifies the lack of microbial research into microplastic contamination as a significant knowledge gap. Microorganisms (bacteria, archaea, and picoeukaryotes) in coastal sediments represent a key category of life with reference to understanding and mitigating the potential adverse effects of microplastics due to their role as drivers of the global functioning of the marine biosphere and as putative mediators of the biodegradation of plastic-associated additives, contaminants, or even the plastics themselves. As such, research into the formation, structure, and activities of microplastic-associated microbial biofilms is essential in order to underpin management decisions aimed at safeguarding the ecological integrity of our seas and oceans.
More Papers Like This
Exploring the Microbiome of the Marine Microplastisphere
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examines the microbiome associated with microplastic particles in marine environments, known as the microplastisphere, describing it as a dynamic and complex ecosystem with significant ecological implications. Researchers found that the microplastisphere harbors distinct microbial communities distinct from surrounding seawater, with potential consequences for marine biodiversity and pollutant transport.
Marine Plastic Debris: A New Surface for Microbial Colonization
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examines the "Plastisphere" -- the community of microbes that rapidly colonizes plastic debris in the ocean -- covering biofilm development, potential biodegradation, and the hitchhiking of harmful bacteria. Researchers found that microbial communities on plastics do not dramatically differ from those on other inert surfaces, especially in mature biofilms. The study identifies key knowledge gaps and calls for more environmentally realistic research into how these plastic-associated microbes interact with marine ecosystems.
Marine Microbial Assemblages on Microplastics: Diversity, Adaptation, and Role in Degradation
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examines microbial communities that colonize microplastics in the ocean, collectively known as the plastisphere. Researchers found that these biofilms differ significantly from those on natural surfaces and may include pathogenic bacteria and species capable of partially degrading plastics. The study highlights both the ecological risks of microplastics as vectors for harmful microbes and the potential for harnessing plastic-degrading organisms.
Microbial colonization and degradation of marine microplastics in the plastisphere: A review
AI summary Read the abstract
This review explores the "plastisphere" — the community of microorganisms that colonize microplastics floating in the ocean. Researchers found that bacteria, fungi, algae, and other microbes form unique biofilm communities on plastic surfaces, some of which can partially degrade the plastic while others include potentially harmful pathogens. Understanding these microbial communities is important for assessing both the ecological risks and possible bioremediation potential of marine microplastic pollution.
Biofilms on Plastic Debris and the Microbiome
AI summary Read the abstract
This review synthesizes knowledge on biofilms that colonize plastic debris in the ocean, known as the plastisphere, covering how microbial communities are structured and how they interact with the surrounding environment. The authors discuss implications for nutrient cycling, pathogen transport, and polymer degradation.
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.