Effects of Plastic Additive DBP and Carbon Input on the Enrichment of Soil Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria and Ecological Risk Assessment

This study investigates the combined effects of the plastic additive dibutyl phthalate and carbon inputs on the enrichment and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in soil ecosystems, while evaluating their ecological risks. The research specifically examines how varying concentrations of DBP and different carbon sources influence the proliferation of ARB and the horizontal transfer of antibiotic resistance genes in soil microbial communities. By establishing dose-response relationships and assessing potential risk thresholds, this work provides critical insights into an emerging environmental concern - the synergistic effects between plastic additives and nutrient inputs in promoting antimicrobial resistance. The findings will contribute to better understanding of soil AMR dissemination pathways under anthropogenic pollution and support the development of effective strategies for mitigating ecological risks associated with combined contamination of plastic additives and organic amendments in agricultural and natural soils. This study addresses a significant knowledge gap in environmental microbiology and offers practical implications for soil management and pollution control policies.