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Polystyrene Microplastic Interferes with Yolk Reserve Utilisation in Early Artemia salina Nauplii

  • 0Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy.
Toxics +

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August 27, 2025

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August 27, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Polystyrene microplastics harm aquatic life. This study found they delay yolk resorption in brine shrimp nauplii, likely due to toxic volatile compounds causing oxidative stress.

Area Of Science

  • Environmental Toxicology
  • Marine Biology
  • Ecotoxicology

Background

  • Polystyrene microplastics (MPs) are pervasive global pollutants impacting aquatic ecosystems.
  • These microplastics pose significant risks to marine organisms, affecting vital organs and tissues.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To investigate the effects of 3 µm polystyrene beads on the development and yolk resorption of *Artemia salina* nauplii.
  • To determine the underlying mechanisms, including oxidative stress and chemical leaching, responsible for observed effects.

Main Methods

  • Exposure of *Artemia salina* pre-feeding nauplii to polystyrene microplastics (MPs) at 20 µg/L.
  • Assessment of hatching rates, growth, oxidative stress markers, and histological changes.
  • Lectin staining for gut function analysis and gas chromatography for volatile compound detection.

Main Results

  • Reduced hatching rates, slower growth, and induced oxidative stress in nauplii exposed to MPs.
  • Delayed yolk resorption linked to the loss of N-acetyl galactosamine (galNAc) from yolk platelets.
  • Impaired gut brush border function (reduced N-acetyl glucosamine) and detection of toxic volatile compounds (VOCs).

Conclusions

  • Polystyrene microplastics disrupt *Artemia salina* development by delaying yolk resorption.
  • The release of VOCs from microplastics induces oxidative stress, contributing to impaired larval development.
  • Findings highlight the complex ecotoxicological impacts of microplastics, necessitating further investigation into their biological and ecological consequences.

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