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Do plastic particles affect microalgal photosynthesis and growth?
Sascha B Sjollema1, Paula Redondo-Hasselerharm1, Heather A Leslie2
1Aquatic Environmental Ecology, IBED, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Aquatic Toxicology (Amsterdam, Netherlands)
|December 18, 2015
Summary
Plastic particles harm microalgae growth, especially smaller, uncharged ones. This research highlights the impact of plastic pollution on marine primary producers and the oxygen cycle.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Marine Biology
- Ecotoxicology
Background:
- Ocean plastic pollution is increasing, posing risks to marine life.
- Microalgae are vital primary producers and oxygen sources, but their response to plastics is poorly understood.
- Particle size and physico-chemical properties may influence plastic toxicity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of polystyrene particle size and surface charge on microalgae.
- To determine the impact of plastic exposure on microalgal photosynthesis and growth.
Main Methods:
- Microalgae were exposed to polystyrene particles (0.05, 0.5, 6μm; charged and uncharged) for 72 hours.
- Photosynthesis was measured using pulse amplitude modulation fluorometry.
- Growth was assessed using flow cytometry.
Main Results:
- No significant effects on microalgal photosynthesis were observed across treatments.
- Uncharged polystyrene particles negatively impacted microalgal growth by up to 45% at high concentrations (250mg/L).
- Adverse effects on growth increased as particle size decreased.
Conclusions:
- Microalgal photosynthesis is not affected by polystyrene particles under tested conditions.
- Microalgal growth is inhibited by uncharged polystyrene particles, with smaller particles being more detrimental.
- This study underscores the potential risks of microplastic pollution to marine primary producers.
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