Micro and Nano Plastics Effect on Growth and Development of Rice (Oryza sativa L.): A Review

Micro and nano plastics (MNPs) have emerged as significant environmental pollutants globally, with numerous research findings extensively addressing the environmental and biohazards resulting from the bioavailability of contaminants. Rice, serving as the staple carbohydrate source for more than half of the global population, demands a concrete understanding of MNPs' toxicity in rice plants. However, the literature pertaining to the impact of MNPs on rice plant growth and development is limited and the future research scope related to MNPs exposure in rice plants is poorly defined. Thus, this review aims to synthesize current research findings regarding MNPs exposure in rice plants and identify existing research gaps. Furthermore, this review article comprehensively discusses up-to-date findings on various impacts on rice plant growth and development, covering key areas such as morphological, biochemical, physiological, metabolic, molecular, and microbial alterations. In addition, it explores MNP sources, uptake and translocation mechanisms, potential health risks, and available remedial approaches to alleviate MNPs bioavailability in rice plants. The review concludes that addressing the current research gaps related to MNPs in paddy fields requires further studies in the future. This would contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the impact of MNPs on rice plants and aid in developing effective mitigation strategies.