Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) of varying sizes are widespread pollutants in our environment. The general opinion is that the smaller the size, the more dangerous the MPs are due to enhanced uptake possibilities. It would be of considerably ecological significance to understand the response of biota to microplastic contamination both physically and physiologically. Here, we report on an area choice experiment (avoidance test) using Enchytraeus crypticus, in which we mixed different amounts of high-density polyethylene microplastic particles into the soil. In all experimental scenarios, more Enchytraeids moved to the unspiked sections or chose a lower MP-concentration. Worms in contact with MP exhibited an enhanced oxidative stress status, measured as the induced activity of the antioxidative enzymes catalase and glutathione S-transferase. As plastic polymers per se are nontoxic, the exposure time employed was too short for chemicals to leach from the microplastic, and as the microplastic particles used in these experiments were too large (4 mm) to be consumed by the Enchytraeids, the likely cause for the avoidance and oxidative stress could be linked to altered soil properties.
Highlights
The contamination of terrestrial ecosystems and aquatic water bodies with plastics debris has become the so-called chemical footprint of our society
Toxics 2020, 8, 10 the particles do not remain static within these classification brackets, and due to weathering effects and mechanical actions, plastics will continue to degrade into microplastics (MPs) and further, as degradation does not reach a static end-point [2]
It would be of ecological importance, to understand if MP pollution could have an influence on the distribution of biota in an ecosystem, as this will contribute to the environmental crisis of decreasing biodiversity
Summary
The contamination of terrestrial ecosystems and aquatic water bodies with plastics debris has become the so-called chemical footprint of our society. Changes in soil structure and terrestrial geochemistry (water holding capacity, hydraulic conductivity, soil aggregation, and microbial activity) due to MP pollution have been demonstrated [4,5] which could, in turn, affect species distribution. This creates a toxic environment for the resident biota, which most concerns worms, which are essential in soil turnover and fertilisation. The leached additives can accumulate in the soil, water, sediment, food, or even body tissues [8] This could result in an ecosystem that causes severe adverse effects in the native biota. Possible adverse effects on E. crypticus due to the roaming behaviour at a physiological level was assessed by determining the oxidative stress status measuring catalase and glutathione S-transferase activity as indicators
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