Species-dependent response of food crops to polystyrene nanoplastics and microplastics

Abstract

This study investigated the early responses of four common food crops (Italian lettuce, radish, wheat and corn) by exposing their seeds to suspensions of polystyrene nanoparticles (nano-PS) and microspheres (micro-PS). We found that the crop responses to exposure to nano-PS and micro-PS at different doses were dependent on the plant species. Among the four species, Italian lettuce was the most sensitive crop in terms of seed germination and its germination index after polystyrene exposure for 7 days was inhibited by 18.2%–36.0% compared with that of the control (p < 0.05). The root growth (root dry weight, root/shoot ratio and root length) of Italian lettuce and corn was significantly inhibited by the exposure treatment (p < 0.05), whereas that of radish and wheat was hardly affected. Analyses of antioxidant enzymatic activities, lipid peroxidation, and integrated biomarker indexes confirmed that the toxic effects of nano-PS and micro-PS on crops are likely due to oxidative stress. The observed distribution of fluorescent nano-PS in the roots or germs of the tested crops suggests that nanoplastics can be taken up by plants even at a very early growth stage (<7 days after sowing). Future research is needed in order to obtain more insights into their implications for agricultural sustainability and food safety.