Abstract
AbstractMicroorganisms drive the biogeochemical cycles that link abiotic and biotic processes in the aqueous environment and are intricately associated with plastic debris. The presence of microplastics in water and sediment introduces new concerns as small particle size allows for increased pathways of microplastics in the food web and element cycles. In this review, we present the current state of knowledge on microbe‐plastic interactions and summarize the potential impact of biogeochemical processes on plastic distribution, cycling, transport, and sedimentation. We explore how microbe‐plastic interactions influence the exposure of consumers to microplastics and plastic degradation products. Key methods used to elucidate biofilm development, microbial biodegradation, and microplastic detection in the aqueous environment are discussed. Finally, we comment on potential future questions and research directions needed to further define the role of microorganisms in the environmental fate of microplastics.
Highlights
Microorganisms drive the biogeochemical cycles that link abiotic and biotic processes in the aqueous environment and are intricately associated with plastic debris
We present the current state of knowledge on microbe-plastic interactions and summarize the potential impact of biogeochemical processes on plastic distribution, cycling, transport, and sedimentation
We explore how microbe-plastic interactions influence the exposure of consumers to microplastics and plastic degradation products
Summary
Due to their small particle size and wide distribution, microplastics can be incorporated into the biogeochemical pathways and food webs of the marine water column and sediment. Our understanding of microplastics in these pathways is still nascent, but of fundamental importance to estimate plastic’s environmental fate and potential remediation. A massive research effort across fields in the last years has brought our understanding further, but there is a strong need to streamline and converge findings. We discuss evidence from controlled laboratory experiments and field studies on microbe-plastic interactions and consider the biogeochemical relevance. Particular focus is on new methods and analytical approaches to understand the two-way interactions between microorganisms and microplastics and the implications for the environmental fate of marine plastic litter
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
