A hyperaccumulator plant is a unique type of plant that can absorb and concentrate high levels of toxic substances from the soil and water. These plants are especially important for cleaning up pollution, including harmful chemicals and microplastics—tiny plastic particles that are difficult to remove from the environment.

Hyperaccumulators have specialized mechanisms that allow them to take in these pollutants through their roots and store them in their tissues, often in their leaves or stems. By growing these plants in contaminated areas, we can help remove toxins and plastics from the environment, essentially using them as natural cleaners.

This process is called phytoremediation, and it can make polluted soils and water safer for other plants, animals, and humans. Researchers are studying different hyperaccumulator species to find the most effective ones for cleaning up specific pollutants, making them a promising solution for tackling environmental issues.