Zooming in the plastisphere: the ecological interface for phytoplankton-plastic interactions in aquatic ecosystems.

ABSTRACT: Phytoplankton is an essential resource in aquatic ecosystems, situated at the base of aquatic food webs. Plastic pollution can impact these organisms, potentially affecting the functioning of aquatic ecosystems. The interaction between plastics and phytoplankton is multifaceted: while microplastics can exert toxic effects on phytoplankton, plastics can also act as a substrate for colonisation. By reviewing the existing literature, this study aims to address pivotal questions concerning the intricate interplay among plastics and phytoplankton/phytobenthos and analyse impacts on fundamental ecosystem processes (e.g. primary production, nutrient cycling). This investigation spans both marine and freshwater ecosystems, examining diverse organisational levels from subcellular processes to entir

SUBMITTER: Nava V 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11885710 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature