Changes in dysbiosis and gene expression in the gut of wharf roach (Ligia Spp.) fed with expanded polystyrene

The East Asian region, known for its high levels of human and fishery activities, experiences serious plastic pollution in the marine environment, especially in seawater and along coastlines. Wharf roaches (Ligia spp.) collected from the coast of western Japan frequently ingest expanded polystyrene (EPS), which is then excreted microplastics through their feces. However, the impact of EPS exposure and ingestion on the gut microbiome of wharf roaches remains unclear. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the effects of EPS ingestion on the gut microbiota of wharf roaches by examining their gut microbiota and gene expression. The expression levels of more than 400 genes, including those associated with xenobiotic metabolism, and the abundance of gut microbial community were altered. Microbial analysis revealed that at least five archaeal types, two to four bacterial types, three to seven eukaryotic types, and three viral types were involved in a correlation network composed of strong associations. Among them, Haloquadratum, Halalkalicoccus, and Methanospirillum (archaea); Volvox (eukaryote); and Varicellovirus and T4-like viruses showed statistically significant increases in abundance. Furthermore, covariance structure analysis indicated that the viruses and methanogens played key causal roles as characteristic factors related to EPS administration. The results of this study suggest that EPS disrupts the intestinal environment of wharf roaches and serves as a potential material for viral activation and methane production. Building on our previous field study that identified wharf roaches as potential indicators of coastal EPS pollution, this study extends the scope by experimentally evaluating the ecological impacts of EPS ingestion, thereby providing broader insights into the consequences of plastic pollution.