Microplastics in plant-microbes-soil system: A review on recent studies

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Soil Science
• Ecotoxicology

Background:

• Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are prevalent pollutants, extensively studied in aquatic environments.
• Their entry into terrestrial ecosystems, specifically soil, raises concerns about biogeochemical cycle disruption.
• Limited research exists on the comprehensive ecological impacts of MPs/NPs within soil systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize current literature on soil MPs/NPs.
• To examine their types, sources, separation, and ecological effects on soil properties, microbes, and plants.
• To establish relationships within the soil-plant system and identify research gaps.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on soil MPs/NPs.
• Synthesis of data on MP/NP characteristics and their ecological impacts.
• Analysis of correlations between MPs/NPs and soil-plant system components.

Main Results:

• MPs/NPs affect soil physicochemical properties and soil organisms directly.
• Indirect impacts occur through alterations in soil material cycling, influencing soil biota.
• Existing studies show varied effects on soil properties, microbial communities, and plants.

Conclusions:

• MPs/NPs pose significant ecological risks to soil ecosystems.
• Further research is needed to fully understand the complex interactions within the soil-plant system.
• Future studies should focus on establishing clear correlations and addressing identified research gaps.