Effects of micro and nanoplastics on soil fauna gut microbiome: an emerging ecological risk for soil health

Microplastics (MPs) and Nanoplastics (NPs) are ubiquitous pollutants which have been widely recognized as a threat to soil ecosystems. Soil fauna includes many different organisms such as earthworms, collembola, mites and nematodes and its activity is essential for maintaining a correct level of soil productivity and health. Once MNPs are ingested by terrestrial animals, they can cause several negative physiological effects including gut dysbiosis. MNPs driven changes in gut microbiota are often overlooked but could result in significant ecosystemic risks. Our current opinion is that gut dysbiosis can have repercussions on soil microbial community composition, functioning and on ecosystemic services. Furthermore, the current number of studies on the effects of MNPs on soil fauna gut microbiome is still very limited. Future research should thus further investigate the effects of MNPs on gut microbiota. Moreover, the relationship between terrestrial fauna intestinal microbiome and soil functionality needs to be considered and more in-depth researched.