Student Research Reports

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This study aimed to assess soil quality and microplastic contamination in paddy soils of Na Muen Sri Subdistrict and Khok Saba Subdistrict. Soil samples were collected from rice fields and analyzed for chemical and physical properties, including macronutrient contents (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium), soil pH, moisture content, and light availability in soil. Microplastic contamination in the soil was also examined using particle separation and screening methods. The results showed that paddy soils in both study areas contained low to very low levels of nitrogen and phosphorus, while potassium levels differed between the two sites. Soils from Khok Saba Subdistrict exhibited higher potassium levels than those from Nam Muen Sri Subdistrict. Soil pH values ranged from 6 to 8 and varied between the study areas. Microplastics were detected in paddy soils from both subdistricts, with a higher number of microplastic particles observed in Khok Saba Subdistrict. In contrast, no microplastic contamination was detected in some plots in Na Muen Sri Subdistrict. The microplastics identified were predominantly fibers and irregularly shaped fragments. These findings highlight spatial variations in soil quality and microplastic contamination in paddy fields. The results provide baseline information for future monitoring of soil quality changes and for the development of sustainable agricultural land management strategies.