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Microplastics benefit bacteria colonization and induce microcystin degradation

Yixin He1, Guining Wei1, Bingran Tang1

  • 1Key Laboratory of Eco-Environment of Three Gorges Region, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China.

Journal of Hazardous Materials
|February 27, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) enhance microcystin (MC-LR) removal through adsorption and biodegradation by attached biofilms. This study reveals MPs act as a double-edged sword, impacting toxic substance behavior in aquatic environments.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Science
  • Microbiology
  • Ecotoxicology

Background:

  • Microplastics (MPs) can adsorb toxic substances and host microbial communities.
  • The interplay between adsorbed toxins and MP-associated biofilms is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the influence of polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) on microcystin (MC-LR) behavior in aquatic microcosms.
  • To elucidate the mechanisms of MC-LR interaction with PS-MPs and their biofilms.

Main Methods:

  • A 37-day microcosm experiment simulating turbulent aquatic conditions.
  • Analysis of MC-LR concentrations, PS-MP adsorption, and biofilm composition.
  • Identification of MC-LR degradation products.

Main Results:

  • PS-MPs significantly reduced aquatic MC-LR concentrations primarily through adsorption.
  • Biofilm formation on PS-MPs enhanced MC-LR bio-adsorption and facilitated biodegradation.
  • Bacteria like Sphingomonadaceae and Methylophilaceae in biofilms contributed to MC-LR degradation, achieving up to 35.8% removal.

Conclusions:

  • MPs act as vectors for toxic substances, exhibiting a dual role in adsorption and biodegradation.
  • The interaction between MPs, biofilms, and toxins is significant in natural waters, influencing ecological risks.
Keywords:
BiodegradationBiofilmMicrocystinsMicroplasticsTurbulence

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