Effects of micro and nanoplastics on soil fauna gut microbiome: An emerging ecological risk for soil health

Filippo Vaccari, Bartolo Forestieri, Giulia Papa, Francesca Bandini, Esperanza Huerta-Lwanga, Iteb Boughattas, Omayma Missawi, Mohamed Banni, Ilaria Negri, Pier Sandro Cocconcelli, Edoardo Puglisi

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

Microplastics (MPs) and Nanoplastics (NPs) are ubiquitous pollutants which have been widely recognized as a threat to soil ecosystems. Soil fauna includes many different organisms such as earthworms, Collembola, mites, and nematodes and its activity is essential for maintaining a correct level of soil productivity and health. Once MNPs are ingested by terrestrial animals, they can cause several negative physiological effects including gut dysbiosis. MNPs driven changes in gut microbiota are often overlooked but could result in significant ecosystemic risks. Our current opinion is that gut dysbiosis can have repercussions on soil microbial community composition, functioning and on ecosystemic services. Furthermore, the current number of studies on the effects of MNPs on soil fauna gut microbiome is still very limited. Future research should thus further investigate the effects of MNPs on gut microbiota. Moreover, the relationship between terrestrial fauna intestinal microbiome and soil functionality needs to be considered and more in-depth researched.

Original languageEnglish
Article number100402
JournalCurrent Opinion in Environmental Science and Health
Volume30
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2022
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Collembola
  • Earthworms
  • Interaction
  • Microbial community
  • Microplastic
  • Soil-dwelling organisms

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