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INTERACTIONS BETWEEN PLASTIC DEBRIS, PERSISTENT ORGANIC POLLUTANTS AND MICROORGANISMS IN OCEAN SURFACE WATERS
Impact/Purpose:
Microorganisms are likely important players in the lifecycle of plastic debris that reaches marine environments. The aim of this research is to uncover what types of microorganisms are colonizing plastics in marine surface waters and whether they differ from free-living and natural particle-associated strains typically identified in the ocean. This research also will investigate how plastic-associated microbes obtain nutrients and energy and if and how plastic-associated microorganisms are degrading plastic or persistent organic pollutants commonly bound to plastic particles.
Description:
The chemical structure of plastics greatly differs from natural marine particulate matter and therefore plastics likely are creating new and unique niches for microorganisms in the ocean. It is hypothesized that the microbes found on plastic particles will be taxonomically and functionally distinct from free-living and natural particle-associated marine strains. Microorganisms have been observed degrading types of plastics in several environments, so it is likely that this will be similarly observed. It is predicted that the degradation process will vary, depending on nutrient concentrations in the water.
Potential to Further Environmental/Human
Health Protection
This work will deepen the understanding of the microorganisms that
colonize plastics in marine systems. This may help material scientists
engineer more ecofriendly plastics that can be readily biodegraded in the
marine environment. This work will increase the understanding of the
lifecycle of plastic debris when it enters the ocean. This information is
fundamental to developing better informed plastic pollution management
and policy decisions.