Prokaryotic microorganisms after addition of microplastics to natural waters
As an emerging pollutant, microplastics have attracted increasing global attention due to their widespread presence and potential ecological risks. In this study, a 60-day indoor incubation experiment was conducted to systematically compare the effects of conventional polyethylene (PE) and biodegradable poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) microplastics, at both low and high concentrations, on microbial community structure and metabolic functions in aquatic environments.