The comparison effect on earthworms between conventional and biodegradable microplastics.

ABSTRACT: Many studies have reported the toxic effects of microplastics (MPs) on organisms, especially on how conventional plastics affect organisms after short-term exposure. The effects of biodegradable plastics on organisms are, however, largely unexplored, especially concerning their impact after long-term exposure. We perform a series of experiments to examine the effects of conventional (polyethylene (PE)) and biodegradable (polylactic acid (PLA)) microplastics on earthworms at three concentrations (0.5 %, 2 %, and 5 % (w/w)) and particle sizes (149, 28, and 13 μm) over short- (14 d) and long-term (28 d) periods of exposure. Negative effects on earthworms are more pronounced following exposure to PE than PLA, particularly over the shorter term. After longer-term exposure, earthworms may adapt

SUBMITTER: Lai H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11415699 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature