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Updated: Jul 1, 2026
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Isolation of Native Soil Microorganisms with Potential for Breaking Down Biodegradable Plastic Mulch Films Used in Agriculture
Published on: May 10, 2013
Biodegradable polylactic acid microplastics affect nutrient cycling during the entire crop growth cycle: Implications
Qian Cui1, Feilong Wang2, Xiaoling Shan1
1College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agro-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China.
Environmental Pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)
|June 29, 2026
Summary
Biodegradable polylactic acid microplastics (PLA-MPs) negatively impact soil microbiomes and ecosystem multifunctionality (EMF) throughout the maize growth cycle. PLA-MPs reduced bacterial diversity and altered nutrient cycling, ultimately decreasing overall soil functions.
Area of Science:
- Agroecology
- Environmental Microbiology
- Soil Science
Background:
- Microplastics (MPs) impact soil nutrient cycling, but their effects on ecosystem multifunctionality (EMF) across crop growth are unclear.
- Polylactic acid (PLA) is a biodegradable MP model, yet its full agroecological impact needs investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of PLA-MPs on soil microbiomes and EMF during maize growth.
- To assess the influence of PLA-MPs on soil bacterial communities and nutrient cycling functions.
Main Methods:
- 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and metagenomic analysis were used.
- Maize was incubated for 120 days with varying PLA-MP concentrations.
- Path analysis was employed to determine drivers of EMF changes.
Main Results:
- PLA-MPs reduced bacterial diversity, network complexity, and stability, especially at early stages and higher concentrations.
- PLA-MPs altered carbon fixation, pyruvate metabolism, fermentation, nitrogen fixation, and phosphorus acquisition.
- Soil functions shifted, enhancing carbon but decreasing nitrogen and phosphorus cycling, leading to a 2.05-27.0% EMF reduction.
Conclusions:
- PLA-MPs significantly impact soil microbial communities and functions throughout the maize growth cycle.
- Bacterial community diversity is a primary driver of EMF reduction caused by PLA-MPs.
- Findings highlight concerns regarding the agroecological safety of biodegradable MPs in soil systems.
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