Research progress in microplastic pollution status and microorganisms on microplastics in three major rivers in China

Abstract:

Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous in the surface water of aquatic ecosystems. Generally, MPs can provide unique niches for microorganisms in the environment and pose potential threats to ecosystems and human health. China produces and uses a large amount of plastics, which results in serious plastic pollution. The pollution of MPs in aquatic ecosystems in China and the ecological effects of the microbial communities on MPs have aroused increasing concern. This review introduced the status of MP contamination in three major rivers (Pearl River, Yangtze River, and Yellow River) in China, the microorganisms on MPs, and the factors influencing the microbial community structure. Finally, we summarized the research progress in the microorganisms on MPs in China’s aquatic ecosystems and put forward the prospects.