Madusanka, H. K. S.Aruggoda, A. G. B.Chathurika, J. A. S.Weerakoon, S. R.2024-10-292024-10-292024-11-01Proceedings of the Postgraduate Institute of Science Research Congress (RESCON) -2024, University of Peradeniya, P. 1223051-4622https://ir.lib.pdn.ac.lk/handle/20.500.14444/2758This 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.enAntifungal activityFusarium speciesGreen-synthesized ZnO nanoparticlesPoisoned food techniqueArticle