Microplastics, Bacteriophages and the Plastisphere: Interactions, Ecological Implications and Horizontal Gene Transfer

This scientific overview examines interactions between microplastics, bacteriophages and microbial communities, focusing on phage activity, ecological processes and horizontal gene transfer. The document discusses the effects of microplastic-associated phage aggregation on bacteriophage activity, potential consequences for microbial community dynamics and nutrient cycling, and the role of the plastisphere in the dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes. The overview highlights current research findings, scientific uncertainties and knowledge gaps concerning the ecological implications of microplastic-phage interactions. Author: Magdalena KędzierskaAffiliation: University of Rzeszów, Poland.