Search Results (180)

Nanofertilizers (NFs) and engineered nanoparticles (NPs) are increasingly used in agriculture, yet their environmental safety remains poorly understood. This study evaluated the comparative phytotoxicity of zinc oxide (ZnO), titanium dioxide (TiO₂), and clinoptilolite nanoparticles, three commercial nanofertilizers, and potassium dichromate (K₂Cr₂O₇) using Lactuca sativa seeds under adapted OECD-208 protocol conditions. Seeds were exposed to varying concentrations of each xenobiotic material (0.5–3% for NFs; 10–50% for NPs), with systematic assessment of seedling survival, root and hypocotyl length, dry biomass, germination index (GI), and median effective concentration (EC₅₀) values. Nanofertilizers demonstrated significantly greater phytotoxicity than engineered nanoparticles despite lower application concentrations. The toxicity ranking was established as NF1 > NF3 > NF2 > NM2 > NM1 > NM3, with NF1 being most toxic (EC₅₀ = 1.2%). Nanofertilizers caused 45–78% reductions in root length and 30–65% decreases in dry biomass compared with controls. GI values dropped to ≤70% in NF1 and NF3 treatments, indicating concentration-dependent growth inhibition. While nanofertilizers offer agricultural benefits, their elevated phytotoxicity compared with conventional nanoparticles necessitates rigorous pre-application safety assessment. These findings emphasize the critical need for standardized evaluation protocols incorporating both physiological and ecotoxicological endpoints to ensure safe xenobiotic nanomaterial deployment in agricultural systems. Full article

Tomatoes are a fundamental part of the daily diet, rich in carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, carotenoids, and polyphenols. Nonetheless, optimal fruit yield and quality typically depend on the application of synthetic agrochemicals. However, the irrational use of these agrochemicals has caused various environmental problems. Therefore, it is necessary to develop alternatives to conventional agrochemical products. Applying nanomaterials as fertilizers in tomato production is emerging as a promising approach, with documented improvements in germination, vegetative development, and fruit yield. Therefore, we present a comprehensive review of recent developments (2015–2024) in the application of nanomaterials in tomato crops, with a particular emphasis on the significance of nanomaterial characteristics in their role as fertilizers. Several types of nanomaterials, such as ZnO, Ag, TiO₂, Si, hydroxyapatite, P, Zn, Se, CuO, Cu, Fe, Fe₂O₃, CaO, CaCO₃, and S, have been evaluated as fertilizers for tomato crops, with ZnO nanoparticles being the most extensively studied. However, it is pertinent to conduct further research on the less-explored nanomaterials to gain a deeper understanding of their effects on seed germination, plant growth, and fruit quality and quantity. Full article

The interactive effects between nano-silicon dioxide (n-SiO₂) and elevated CO₂ (eCO₂; 645 ppm) on soybean physiology, nitrogen fixation, and nutrient dynamics under climate stress remain underexplored. This study elucidates their combined effects under ambient (aCO₂; 410 ppm) and eCO₂ conditions. eCO₂ + n-SiO₂ synergistically enhanced shoot length (30%), total chlorophyll (112.15%), and photosynthetic rate (103.23%), alongside improved stomatal conductance and intercellular CO₂ (17.19%), optimizing carbon assimilation. Nodulation efficiency increased, with nodule number and biomass rising by 48.3% and 53.6%, respectively, under eCO₂ + n-SiO₂ versus aCO₂. N-assimilation enzymes (nitrate reductase, nitrite reductase, glutamine synthetase, glutamate synthase) surged by 38.5–52.1%, enhancing nitrogen metabolism. Concurrently, phytohormones (16–21%) and antioxidant activities (15–22%) increased, reducing oxidative markers (18–22%), and bolstering stress resilience. Nutrient homeostasis improved, with P, K, Mg, Cu, Fe, Zn, and Mn elevating in roots (13–41%) and shoots (13–17%), except shoot Fe and Zn. These findings demonstrate that n-SiO₂ potentiates eCO₂-driven benefits, amplifying photosynthetic efficiency, nitrogen fixation, and stress adaptation through enhanced biochemical and nutrient regulation. This synergy underscores n-SiO₂ role in optimizing crop performance under future CO₂-rich climates, advocating nano-fertilizers as sustainable tools for climate-resilient agriculture. Full article

Zinc deficiency is a major contributor to hidden hunger, affecting billions of people worldwide, particularly in vulnerable populations. Agronomic biofortification with zinc is a promising strategy to increase both crop productivity and the nutritional quality of food, especially in countries like Brazil, where tropical soils are often deficient in this micronutrient. This review analyzes the main technologies applied in the zinc biofortification of edible crops in Brazil, including fertilizer types, application methods, doses, and the use of innovative approaches such as nano-fertilizers and biofertilizers. The results show that the foliar application of zinc sulfate at doses of 600 g ha⁻¹ increased zinc concentration in grains by 25–40% without reducing crop yields. Additionally, the use of zinc nanoparticles increased wheat grain zinc content by up to 30% and biomass production, while biofertilizer application with diazotrophic bacteria raised zinc concentration in maize grains by 12.7–18.2%. These technologies demonstrate potential for enhancing zinc use efficiency and improving the nutritional quality of crops. Standardizing biofortification practices is essential to maximize their impact on food and nutritional security, contributing to the prevention of zinc deficiency in human populations. Full article

Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch. is an important economic plant. With its wild populations on the brink of extinction and the area of salinized soil increasing sharply, farmers have gradually used saline soil to carry out artificial cultivation of the licorice. However, the salt stress has led to a significant decrease in the yield and quality of its medicinal organ (root), seriously restricting the sustainable development of the licorice industry. Therefore, we investigated zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) as a nano-fertilizer to enhance root biomass and bioactive compound accumulation under salinity. Our results indicate that under 160 mM NaCl stress, the application of 30 mg/kg ZnO NPs increased the root biomass of the licorice and the contents of glycyrrhizic acid, glycyrrhizin, and total flavonoids in the roots by 182%, 158%, 87%, and 201%, respectively. And the ZnO treatment made the enzyme activities of SOD, CAT, and POD exhibit increase, and made the levels of superoxide anions, electrolyte leakage, soluble sugar, and proline reduce. These results demonstrate that ZnO NPs not only enhance salt tolerance but also redirect metabolic resources toward medicinal compound biosynthesis. Our findings provide a mechanistic basis for utilizing nanotechnology to sustainably cultivate the licorice in marginal saline environments, bridging agricultural productivity and pharmacological value. Full article

Global food security is facing numerous severe challenges. Population growth, climate change, and irrational agricultural inputs have led to a reduction in available arable land, a decline in soil fertility, and difficulties in increasing crop yields. As a result, the supply of food and agricultural products is under serious threat. Against this backdrop, the development of new technologies to increase the production of food and agricultural products and ensure their supply is extremely urgent. Agricultural nanotechnology, as an emerging technology, mainly utilizes the characteristics of nanomaterials such as small size, large specific surface area, and surface effects. It plays a role in gene delivery, regulating crop growth, adsorbing environmental pollutants, detecting the quality of agricultural products, and preserving fruits and vegetables, providing important technical support for ensuring the global supply of food and agricultural products. Currently, the research focus of agricultural nanotechnology is concentrated on the design and preparation of nanomaterials, the regulation of their properties, and the optimization of their application effects in the agricultural field. In terms of the research status, certain progress has been made in the research of nano-fertilizers, nano-pesticides, nano-sensors, nano-preservation materials, and nano-gene delivery vectors. However, it also faces problems such as complex processes and incomplete safety evaluations. This review focuses on the horticultural industry, comprehensively expounding the research status and application progress of agricultural nanotechnology in aspects such as the growth regulation of horticultural crops and the quality detection and preservation of horticultural products. It also deeply analyzes the opportunities and challenges faced by the application of nanomaterials in the horticultural field. The aim is to provide a reference for the further development of agricultural nanotechnology in the horticultural industry, promote its broader and more efficient application, contribute to solving the global food security problem, and achieve sustainable agricultural development. Full article

This study investigated the effects of two nanofertilizers (NFs): copper nanoparticles (NPs) synthesised using cotton (CuC) and chitosan (CuCh) as well as two biofertilizers (BFs), nopal extract (NE) and commercial Biojal^® worm humus (WH), on the growth of black bean seedlings. The treatments consisted of applying 50 mg L⁻¹ of CuC, 50 mg L⁻¹ of CuCh, 50 mg L⁻¹ of NE, 100 mg L⁻¹ of WH, their respective combinations, and an absolute control that consisted of distilled water. The CuC, CuCh, WH, and WH + CuC leaf applications resulted in an increase in plant height by 34.4%, 19.5%, 25.7%, and 20.3%, respectively. Furthermore, the CuC and WH applications led to an increase in the number of leaves by 53.2% and 36.9%, respectively. However, the addition of NE + CuC resulted in a 37.4% decrease in dry weight. A total of 44 metabolites were identified, including 7 sugars, 17 amino acids, 12 organic acids, 4 nucleosides, 1 alcohol, and 3 miscellaneous metabolites. The NE + CuC and WH treatments resulted in a notably higher concentration of various metabolites, including amino acids, organic acids, and sugars. Conversely, the CuCh treatment led to an increased concentration of nucleosides, amino acids, trigonelline, and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD⁺). Full article

Conventional pesticides and fertilizers are frequently linked to high resource consumption, environmental damage, and poor nutrient usage efficiency in the production of broccoli. Nanofertilizers (e.g., iron, copper, zinc oxide, and boron NMs) and pesticide nanoparticles (NPs) are examples of nanotechnology that is mainly related to broccoli production. These technologies can increase the efficiency of nutrient uptake and utilization as well as broccoli’s resistance to drought, heavy metal stress, saline and alkaline stress, and other conditions. Through accurate fertilization and dosing, nanotechnology can reduce environmental contamination and the need for traditional chemical pesticides and fertilizers. Crops with nanomaterials have higher micronutrient content and better nutritional quality. This study examines the use of nanotechnology in the production of broccoli, which could improve crop yield and quality. However, much research is still required to determine how nanomaterials affect the environment and whether or not they might be hazardous to broccoli because of their minuscule particle size and unique physical and chemical characteristics. Researchers and agricultural professionals both within and outside the field of nanobiotechnology will be able to choose the right nanoparticles for broccoli production with the help of the information presented in this paper. The use of nanotechnology can reduce production costs and support sustainable agricultural growth. Additionally, it opens up new possibilities for the future production, transportation, and storage of cruciferous vegetables. Full article

Rice is a major crop for half of the world’s population, and nitrogen (N) fertilizers play a crucial role in its production. However, imbalanced N fertilizer uses and traditional fertilization practices have led to low nitrogen use efficiency (NUE), increased N footprints, and reduced rice yields and farmers’ income. There are limited studies where the integration of both agronomic and molecular advancements to enhance NUE is discussed, particularly in developing countries. This review highlights novel agronomic and molecular strategies to enhance NUE, rice yields, and profitability, while minimizing environmental impact. The agronomic strategies include the 4R Nutrient Stewardship framework, enhanced efficiency nitrogen fertilizers (EENFs), nano-fertilizers, biochar-based fertilizers, biological N fixation, and sensor-based fertilizer management in major rice-growing countries. The molecular mechanisms focus on N uptake, assimilation, and utilization, highlighting the role of hormones, key genes, transcription factors (TFs), and regulatory pathways. Moreover, we examine promising rice genotypes and cultivars with improved NUE and grain yield. Additionally, this paper offers deep insights into recent advancements in molecular genetics, such as multi-omics approaches (transcriptomics, metabolomics, and metagenomics), the Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS), Quantitative Traits Loci mapping (QTLs), Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) analysis, and Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR-Cas9)-mediated genome editing, which serve as valuable tools for developing rice cultivars with enhanced NUE and grain yield. Full article

Nanotechnology has been a source of innovation in various fields in recent years, and its application in agriculture has attracted much attention, particularly for its potential to enhance crop growth and optimize nutritional quality. This study systematically investigated the effects of nickel ferrite nanoparticles (NiFe₂O₄ NPs) on peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) growth, nutrient dynamics, and biochemical responses, highlighting their potential as sustainable alternatives to conventional fertilizers. The results showed that an optimum concentration of 50 mg/kg soil significantly improved photosynthetic efficiency, biomass accumulation, seed yield, and nutritional quality, with 1000 seed weight and total yield increasing by 12.3% and 15.6%, respectively. In addition, we hypothesized that NiFe₂O₄ NPs would activate the antioxidant system and increase plant resistance. According to the risk assessment, the target hazard quotient (THQ = 0.081) is well below the safety threshold of 1. These findings provide strong evidence for the application of NiFe₂O₄ NPs as next-generation nano-fertilizers, offering a dual advantage of improved agronomic performance and biosafety. However, further research is needed to optimize their application strategies and assess potential long-term environmental impacts. Full article

As Africa’s population continues to grow, the need for sustainable agricultural practices has intensified, sparking greater interest in nanofertilizers This review critically evaluates the agronomic efficiency and environmental sustainability of nanofertilizers in the African context. It combines existing research on nanofertilizers’ effectiveness, nutrient-use efficiency, and environmental impact. Nanofertilizers have shown a nutrient-use efficiency boost of up to 30% compared to conventional fertilizers. This review also highlights benefits such as enhanced crop yields (up to 25% increase in maize production), reduced chemical fertilizer requirements (up to 40% reduction in nitrogen application), and improved soil health. The analysis informs policy, research, and practice aimed at optimizing nanofertilizer deployment for sustainable African agriculture. The projected global population of 2.4 billion by 2050 highlights that the need for sustainable agricultural solutions has never been more important. Our review conveys an assessment of nanofertilizers’ potential contribution to Africa’s agricultural sustainability and food security. Full article

Drought stress threatens agriculture and food security, significantly impacting soybean yield and physiology. Despite the documented role of nanosilica (n-SiO₂) in enhancing crop resilience, its full growth-cycle effects on soybeans under drought stress remain elusive. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of n-SiO₂ at a concentration of 100 mg kg⁻¹ in a soil medium for enhancing drought tolerance in soybeans through a full life-cycle assessment in a greenhouse setup. To elucidate the mechanisms of n-SiO₂ action, key physiological, biochemical, and yield parameters were systematically measured. The results demonstrated that n-SiO₂ significantly increased silicon content in shoots and roots, restored osmotic balance by reducing the Na⁺/K⁺ ratio by 40%, and alleviated proline accumulation by 35% compared to the control, thereby mitigating osmotic stress. Enzyme activities related to nitrogen metabolism, including nitrate reductase (NR) and glutamine synthetase (GS), improved by 25–30% under n-SiO₂ treatment compared to the control. Additionally, antioxidant activity, including superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels, increased by 15%, while oxidative stress markers such as hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and malondialdehyde (MDA) decreased by 20–25% compared to the control. Furthermore, yield components were significantly enhanced, with pod number and grain weight increasing by 15% and 20%, respectively, under n-SiO₂ treatment compared to untreated plants in drought conditions. These findings suggest that n-SiO₂ effectively enhances drought resilience in soybeans by reinforcing physiological and metabolic processes critical for growth and yield. This study underscores the potential of n-SiO₂ as a sustainable amendment to support soybean productivity in drought-prone environments, contributing to more resilient agricultural systems amidst increasing climate variability. Future research should focus on conducting large-scale field trials to evaluate the effectiveness and cost-efficiency of n-SiO₂ applications under diverse environmental conditions to assess its practical viability in sustainable agriculture. Full article

The increasing severity of salinity stress, exacerbated by climate change, poses significant challenges to sustainable agriculture, particularly in salt-affected regions. Soil salinity, impacting approximately 20% of irrigated lands, severely reduces crop productivity by disrupting plants’ physiological and biochemical processes. This study evaluates the effectiveness of zinc (Zn) and silicon (Si) nanofertilizers in improving maize (Zea mays L.) growth, nutrient uptake, and yield under both saline and non-saline field conditions. ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized via the co-precipitation method due to its ability to produce highly pure and uniform particles, while the sol–gel method was chosen for SiO₂ NPs to ensure precise control over the particle size and enhanced surface activity. The NPs were characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, XRD, SEM, and TEM-EDX, confirming their crystalline nature, morphology, and nanoscale size (ZnO~12 nm, SiO₂~15 nm). A split-plot field experiment was conducted to assess the effects of the nano and conventional Zn and Si fertilizers. Zn was applied at 10 ppm (22.5 kg/ha) and Si at 90 ppm (201 kg/ha). Various agronomic, chemical, and physiological parameters were then evaluated. The results demonstrated that nano Zn/Si significantly enhanced the cob length and grain yield. Nano Si led to the highest biomass increase (110%) and improved the nutrient use efficiency by 105% under saline and 110% under non-saline conditions compared to the control. Under saline stress, nano Zn/Si improved the nutrient uptake efficiency, reduced sodium accumulation, and increased the grain yield by 66% and 106%, respectively, compared to the control. A Principal Component Analysis (PCA) highlighted a strong correlation between nano Zn/Si applications with the harvest index and Si contents in shoots, along with other physiological and yield attributes. These findings highlight that nanotechnology-based fertilizers can mitigate salinity stress and enhance crop productivity, providing a promising strategy for sustainable agriculture in salt-affected soils. Full article

Lupin is an Andean legume that has gained importance in Ecuador due to the protein content in its grain. Nonetheless, in recent times the production of lupin has been affected by inadequate nutritional management. In order to avoid such circumstances, the current study spectrally analyzed lupin cultivation under the application of nanofertilizers and Fe and Zn chelates, within two controlled trials, using a radiometer spectrum, an active crop sensor and a multispectral sensor mounted on a UAV. Vegetation indices were generated and subsequently statistically analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey tests. In the field trial, the treatments lacked an indication of significant improvements, while in the greenhouse trial, the nanofertilizer treatments indicated better results compared to the control treatments. However, it was also determined that the application of nanofertilizers at a concentration of 540 ppm demonstrated significant efficiency in greenhouse conditions, which could not be achieved in the field. Furthermore, the chelate treatment presented a certain degree of toxicity for the plant. Full article

With the rising need for sustainable agricultural practices, nano-fertilizers have emerged as an innovative alternative to traditional fertilizers. These advanced fertilizers enhance nutrient use efficiency, promote crop growth, and minimize environmental harm by enabling precise nutrient delivery. This review evaluates various nano-fertilizer application techniques and their influence on plant growth, yield, and quality. Additionally, it explores their interactions with soil composition and microbial communities, emphasizing their role in enzymatic activity and nutrient cycling. While nano-fertilizers offer significant benefits, challenges such as proper dosage regulation, potential toxicity, and long-term ecological effects necessitate further research. This study highlights recent advancements in nano-fertilizer technology and underscores the importance of an integrated approach to optimize agricultural productivity while preserving soil health and environmental sustainability. Full article