MICROPLASTICS POLLUTION IN AGRICULTURE AND IMPACT OF MICROPLASTICS ON INSECT HEALTH AND AGROECOSYSTEM FUNCTIONING

Abstract

Microplastics pollution has become an increasing environmental issue on the land ecology especially in the farmland soils where plastic products are extensively used to cultivate crops. Microplastics, which are plastic materials that are below 5 mm, are formed by the breakdown of large materials like mulch film, greenhouse covers, irrigation pipes, and packaging materials. Other sources involve sewage water application, wastewater irrigation, and compost amendment, that all add up to microplastics in agro ecosystems. The microplastics may stay long due to their resistance and persistence in soils and interact with different parts of the soil environment. Recent research indicates that microplastics can potentially influence the soil structure, porosity, water retention ability as well as the processes of nutrient cycling, which consequently have consequences on soil fertility and plant growth. Such particles also enter into contact with soil microorganisms and invertebrates and it is possible that they can change microbial powers and ecosystem activity. Agricultural systems may be exposed to microplastics by contaminated soil, food trophic transfer, plant tissues, or insects. This can have consequences on the physiology of insects, intestinal microorganisms, dietary habits, and reproductive fitness. Microplastics may also be exposed to the honeybees by means of contaminated pollen and nectar, which can be hazardous to the health of pollinators and services to crops. It also indicates the existing research gaps, and the need to implement sustainable plastic management and green agricultural practices to minimize the microplastics contamination of agroecosystems.