Marine plastic exposure triggers rapid recruitment of Exiguobacterim decomposers and accelerates polymer-specific transformations

This study assessed the chemical and microbiological changes of four plastic types (PP, PET, PS, PE) after 40 days of exposure in a marine environment. Analyses using FTIR, SEM, and XRD showed signs of chemical degradation and physical wear. Microbial colonization was detected, with increased abundance of potential plastic-degrading bacteria, notably Exiguobacterium. Results suggest that marine microbes can accelerate the breakdown of certain plastics.