Microbial Biofilms in the African Plastisphere Implications for Freshwater Ecosystems and Contaminant Degradation

Xu, Lei; Hong, Ziming

Publication:
Microbial Biofilms in the African Plastisphere Implications for Freshwater Ecosystems and Contaminant Degradation

dc.contributor.author	Xu, Lei; Hong, Ziming
dc.date.accessioned	2024-10-28T09:21:03Z
dc.date.available	2024-10-28T09:21:03Z
dc.date.issued	2024-10-26
dc.description.abstract	Microbial biofilms on plastic debris, collectively known as the plastisphere, play a dual role in Africa’s freshwater ecosystems. These biofilms contribute to nutrient cycling and contaminant degradation, yet they also serve as potential vectors for pathogens and antibiotic resistance genes. Plastic waste in aquatic systems disrupts microbial communities, raising concerns over water quality and ecosystem health. Biofilm adaptability enhances pollutant breakdown, particularly for heavy metals and organic contaminants, while simultaneously increasing environmental contamination risks. This study emphasizes the need for further research to manage biofilm interactions with plastic pollution, addressing critical ecological challenges in Africa's freshwater environments.
dc.identifier.uri	https://africarxiv.ubuntunet.net/handle/1/1706
dc.identifier.uri	https://doi.org/10.60763/africarxiv/1588
dc.language.iso	en_US
dc.subject	microbial biofilms
dc.subject	plastisphere
dc.subject	freshwater ecosystems
dc.subject	contaminant degradation
dc.subject	antibiotic resistance genes
dc.subject	Africa
dc.subject	plastic pollution
dc.subject	ecosystem health
dc.subject	nutrient cycling
dc.subject	bioremediation
dc.title	Microbial Biofilms in the African Plastisphere Implications for Freshwater Ecosystems and Contaminant Degradation
dc.type	Preprint
dspace.entity.type	Publication