A Critical Review on the Impacts of Nanoplastics and Microplastics on Aquatic and Terrestrial Photosynthetic Organisms

Abstract

Microplastic and nanoplastic contamination is widespread and affects aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Photosynthetic organisms are present in both media, they are primary producers, sink for CO₂ , and they represent a major point of entry in the food chain. Here, the current knowledge on the fate and impacts of microplastics and nanoplastics in interaction with these organisms is reviewed. As a general trend, plastic characteristics (smaller size and positive charge) play a crucial role in their toxicity toward photosynthetic organisms. Plastic leachates (containing additives) also represent a major source of toxicity, and some harmful compounds such as phthalate esters are shown to accumulate in plants and generate a risk for the consumers. Adsorption of plastic particles is evidenced for each type of photosynthetic organism, and uptake and translocation in terrestrial plants is evidenced for nanoplastics, leading to concerns for trophic chain contamination. The available techniques for the detection of microplastics and nanoplastics and their secondary products in biological samples and media are also listed. Finally, the current gaps of knowledge, specific challenges, and future research directions are also discussed.

Keywords: macrophyte; phytoplankton; plant; plastic.