The Importance of Biofilms on Microplastic Particles in Their Sinking Behavior and the Transfer of Invasive Organisms between Ecosystems

Although plastic is ubiquitous in marine systems, our current knowledge of its transport limited. Recent studies suggest size-selective removal small particles (<5 mm) from the ocean surface as a result formation biofilm (the “plastisphere”) on microplastic particle (MP) surface. This localized microenvironment can isolate microcosm adjacent aqueous medium, and thus protect component alien species surrounding physico-chemical conditions. Apart resulting specific conditions for transfer through environment, plastisphere impact MP hydrodynamics cause MPs to move water column, initially sinking. The importance this phenomenon has not been previously considered these particles. size-dependent vertical movement column determines their distribution, which will vary with time exposure colonization. Some organisms have plastic-degrading activities, could be harnessed depollution strategies. article seeks increase understanding role biofilms biological dynamics diffusion microparticles.