Summary
Background: Microplastics (MP, plastic particles < 5 mm) are ubiquitous in arable soils due to significant inputs via organic fertilizers, sewage sludges, and plastic mulches. However, knowledge of typical MP loadings, their fate, and ecological impacts on arable soils is limited. Aims: We studied (1) MP background concentrations, (2) the fate of added conventional and biodegradable MP, and (3) effects of MP in combination with organic fertilizers on microbial abundance and activity associated with carbon (C) cycling, and crop yields in an arable soil. Methods: On a conventionally managed soil (Luvisol, silt loam), we arranged plots in a randomized complete block design with the following MP treatments (none, low-density polyethylene [LDPE], a blend of poly(lactic acid) and poly(butylene a
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