Marine Microplastics and their epibiotic Microorganisms (MMM)

Plastic is one of the most important types of man-made polluting debris in global ocean. Those less than 5 mm are called microplastics (MPs). Sources of MPs mainly include the degradation of larger plastics and manufactured microbeads. Despite various studies have reported the existence of MPs in different marine environments, little is known as yet about MPs and their effects on the function of marine ecosystems. Microorganisms (including bacteria, archaea, fungi, viruses, protists and microalgae) play essential roles in the ocean, and the interactions between MPs and microorganisms are attracting the attention of researchers. However, available research mainly analyzed the effects of MPs on one or several microorganisms through laboratory approaches, the microorganisms on MPs in marine field and natural conditions have not been touched yet.

MPs provide newly emerging marine habitats for microorganisms and facilitate the spread of microorganisms. Some harmful algal species, pathogenic bacteria, and drug-resistant bacteria have been found in microbial communities attached to MPs, which may increase the risks of spreading and invading uninhabited regions. Therefore, further research should be carried out on the dynamics of MPs diversity, abundance, and potential toxicity and its effects on those attached microbial communities. This will provide new insights in the relationship of marine microorganisms on MPs and ecosystem function.

The main foci of this Research Topic are those studies that relate to the dynamics of MPs pollution and the effects of MPs on microbial communities. Among other aspects this includes the following investigations. Firstly, the species diversity and community structure of those microorganisms attached to or living on MPs and their effects in different marine environments. Secondly, how MPs affect the growth of microorganisms and the release of toxic substances. Thirdly, what role can microorganisms play in the decomposition and settlement of MPs. This Research Topic calls for original and novel papers on any, but not exclusively, of the following research topics:
• The species diversity and community structure of microorganisms especially microalgae and bacteria attached to or living on MPs and its influencing factors.
• The effects of MPs on the growth of dominant microorganisms and the structure of their communities.
• The effects of MPs on the dispersal of invasive and sometimes harmful microorganisms.
• The role of microorganisms in reducing MPs pollution.

Keywords: Microplastic, Marine environment, microorganism, harmful species, ecological response

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.