Antifungal effect of green synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles against plant pathogens Fusarium spp.
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Date
2024-11-01
Authors
Madusanka, H. K. S.
Aruggoda, A. G. B.
Chathurika, J. A. S.
Weerakoon, S. R.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Postgraduate Institute of Science (PGIS), University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
Abstract
This study evaluated the antifungal potential of green-synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) against plant pathogens of the Fusarium species. The synthesis process utilised Mimosa pigra leaves, which were dehydrated, pulverized, and extracted by mixing 8 g of dried leaf powder with 100 mL of double-distilled water. Zinc nitrate hexahydrate (Zn(NO₃)₂·6H₂O) served as the precursor salt for the eco-friendly synthesis of ZnO NPs. The formation of ZnO NPs was confirmed through UV-visible spectroscopy, revealing a characteristic absorption peak at 356 nm. Scanning electron microscopy indicated a heterogeneous distribution of particle shapes and sizes, with an average particle size of 81 nm (range: 35-164 nm). The antifungal efficacy of the synthesized ZnO NPs was assessed using the poisoned food technique. ZnO NP concentrations of 0 (negative control), 50, 100, 500, and 1000 mg/L were incorporated into potato dextrose agar (PDA) plates. Fusarium species mycelial plugs (8 mm diameter) were inoculated into 9 cm diameter Petri dishes. All treatments were incubated at 28 ± 2 °C for seven days, with three replicates per treatment. Mycelial growth was measured, and statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA, yielding a significant F-value of 43.93 (p < 0.001). Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT) was applied as a post hoc analysis to identify significant differences in growth inhibition between treatments. ZnO NPs exhibited concentration-dependent inhibition of Fusarium species, with the highest inhibition (61.52%) observed at 1000 mg/L and 22.21% inhibition at 500 mg/L compared to the control. These findings indicated that green-synthesized ZnO NPs could be a sustainable approach for managing Fusarium infections in agricultural systems. Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms of action and evaluate their potential for field applications.
Description
Keywords
Antifungal activity , Fusarium species , Green-synthesized ZnO nanoparticles , Poisoned food technique
Citation
Proceedings of the Postgraduate Institute of Science Research Congress (RESCON) -2024, University of Peradeniya, P. 122