Uncovering the characteristics of plastic-associated biofilm from the inland river system of Mongolia

Battulga, B. ; Munkhbat, D.*; Matsueda, Makoto   ; Atarashi-Andoh, Mariko  ; Oyuntsetseg, B.*; Koarashi, Jun   ; Kawahigashi, Masayuki*

The occurrence and characteristics of plastic debris in aquatic and terrestrial environments have been extensively studied. However, there is still limited information on the properties and dynamic behavior of plastic-associated biofilms in the environment. In this study, we collected plastic samples from an inland river system in Mongolia and extracted biofilms from the plastics to uncover the characteristics of the biofilms using analytical, isotopic, and thermogravimetric techniques. Mixtures of organic and mineral particles were detected from extracted biofilms, revealing the plastic as a carrier for exogenous substances including contaminants in the river ecosystem. The present study provides insights into the characteristics and environmental behavior of biofilms which are useful to elucidate the impact of plastic-associated biofilms on organic matter and material cycling in the aquatic ecosystems.