Microplastics are merging with bacteria and turning into large clumps in sea water, scientists have discovered.
Glue-like molecules emitted by bacteria – called biopolymers – join with the plastic particles to form large masses.
Scientists have warned that these ‘complex’ masses pose a threat to marine wildlife as they can easily mistake them for food.
They also warn that this clumping could divert the flow of food from the surface to the seafloor, potentially causing deep sea creatures to starve.