Effect of polylactic acid microplastics and lead on the growth and physiological characteristics of buckwheat

The synergy of microplastics with the heavy metal zinc has resulted in reducing the toxic effects of zinc on lentil (Lens culinaris) seed germination and seedling growth

“…The presence of microplastics in the extensively contaminated agricultural soil elevated the readily available Zn concentration more than the harmful Cd concentration. Moreover, the effect of polylactic acid (PLA) microplastics and lead (Pb 2+ ) on the growth and physiological characteristics of buckwheat was investigated [ 31 ]. The results imply that both PLA-MPs and Pb 2+ inhibited Tartary buckwheat growth.…”

“…Existing research report on the combined effect of MPs and heavy metals is restricted to seedling growth, i.e., after the germination occurred, and not on the germination process itself [ 21 ]. Moreover, numerous research works have explored the individual and synergic effects of MPs and heavy metals on plants and reported different effects particularly after the germination occurred [ 30 , 31 ]. Most of the procedures employed in previous works are invasive and sample preparation is time-consuming.…”