Deciphering the effects of LDPE microplastic films on diversity, composition and co-occurrence network of soil fungal community

Microplastics have attracted global concern due to its potential threat to ecosystems. The effects of microplastics (MPs) on soil ecosystems, especially for microbial communities, have been reported in an increasing number of studies. However, these studies mostly focus on soil bacteria and less on fungus which play a critical role in soil ecosystems. Here, we profiled the effects of polyethylene MPs on fungal community in soil and focus on three primary features: diversity, composition structure, and co-occurrence network patterns. The results indicated the alpha diversity indexes presented by Chao1 and Shannon of fungal communities in soil were not significantly affected (almost 2000 pieces/kg soil) under PE MPs exposure, whereas the beta diversity was significantly different between the soil with and without PE MPs amended on 30 days. Several taxa inclusive of fungus with the potential to degrade plastics were enriched in soil with PE MPs amended. In addition, co-occurrence network analysis revealed the associations of soil fungal communities were more complex and tightened, and the abundance of saprotrophic fungi was increased due to PE MPs exposure. Our study demonstrated that microplastics could alter soil fungal communities and potentially affect the biogeochemical cycles. The findings provided valuable clues to enhance our understanding of the impact of MPs on soil ecosystems.

Automated summary

Microplastics are a global concern due to their potential threat to ecosystems. The effects of microplastics on soil microbial communities, specifically fungi, were investigated. The study found that the diversity and composition of soil fungal communities were not significantly affected by polyethylene microplastics exposure, but the co-occurrence network patterns were more complex and the abundance of saprotrophic fungi increased. These findings provide valuable insights into the impact of microplastics on soil ecosystems.