Oyster reproduction is affected by exposure to polystyrene microplastics

Plastics are persistent synthetic polymers that accumulate as waste in the marine environment. Microplastic (MP) particles are derived from the breakdown of larger debris or can enter the environment as microscopic fragments. Because filter-feeder organisms ingest MP while feeding, they are likely to be impacted by MP pollution. To assess the impact of polystyrene microspheres (micro-PS) on the physiology of the Pacific oyster, adult oysters were experimentally exposed to virgin micro-PS (2 and 6 µm in diameter; 0.023 mg·L−1) for 2 mo during a reproductive cycle. Effects were investigated on ecophysiological parameters; cellular, transcriptomic, and proteomic responses; fecundity; and offspring development. Oysters preferentially ingested the 6-µm micro-PS over the 2-µm-diameter particles. Consumption of microalgae and absorption efficiency were significantly higher in exposed oysters, suggesting compensatory and physical effects on both digestive parameters. After 2 mo, exposed oysters had significant decreases in oocyte number (−38%), diameter (−5%), and sperm velocity (−23%). The D-larval yield and larval development of offspring derived from exposed parents decreased by 41% and 18%, respectively, compared with control offspring. Dynamic energy budget modeling, supported by transcriptomic profiles, suggested a significant shift of energy allocation from reproduction to structural growth, and elevated maintenance costs in exposed oysters, which is thought to be caused by interference with energy uptake. Molecular signatures of endocrine disruption were also revealed, but no endocrine disruptors were found in the biological samples. This study provides evidence that micro-PS cause feeding modifications and reproductive disruption in oysters, with significant impacts on offspring.

Keyword(s)

microplastic, reproduction, energy allocation, oyster

Full Text

FilePagesSizeAccess
Publisher's official version
6874 Ko
Supporting Information
41 Mo
Dataset S01
-59 Ko
Dataset S02
-48 Ko
Dataset S03
-47 Ko
Author's final draft
33712 Ko
How to cite
Sussarellu Rossana, Suquet Marc, Thomas Yoann, Lambert Christophe, Fabioux Caroline, Pernet Marie Eve Julie, Le Goic Nelly, Quillien Virgile, Mingant Christian, Epelboin Yanouk, Corporeau Charlotte, Guyomarch Julien, Robbens Johan, Paul-Pont Ika, Soudant Philippe, Huvet Arnaud (2016). Oyster reproduction is affected by exposure to polystyrene microplastics. Proceedings Of The National Academy Of Sciences Of The United States Of America. 113 (9). 2430-2435. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1519019113, https://archimer.ifremer.fr/doc/00311/42233/

Copy this text