Microplastics are one of the most complex and ubiquitous pollutants, therefore, it is difficult to predict its behaviour in the environment. The aim of this diploma thesis was to review the literature describing the interactions of microplastics with aquatic plants. These interactions play an important role in the development of phytoremediation strategies for removal of microplastics from aquatic ecosystems. The main problem with research focused on interactions with aquatic plants is that they address interactions only with an individual plant. Systematic review of interactions is currently lacking. In this diploma thesis, the interactions are presented according to the distribution in the water column – floating plants (Lemna minor, Salvinia cucullata), submerged plants (Myriophyllum spicatum L., Elodea sp. and Utricularia vulgaris). Observed interactions in these plants were electrostatic – hydrogen bond between the microplastic and the cellulose wall of the plant. In the carnivorous plant Utricularia vulgaris, prey traps were responsible for accumulation of microplastics, suggesting the importance of plant morphology in study of interactions. Interactions of microplastics with seagrass Thalassia testudinum and its role in microplastic transfer between trophic levels are presented. It was found that microplastics accumulate microplastics on leaves through biofilms development. Therefore, plants have high potentials for phytoremediation due to strong interactions with microplastics.
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