Harnessing biologically synthesized nanomaterials for their antimicrobial potential in crop protection

Abstract

Global agriculture faces unprecedented challenges due to the increasing frequency of climate change, which is leading to continuously declining crop yields. Simultaneously, the growing world population is impacting food demand. Crop growth and yield are negatively affected by rising biotic stress in agriculture. Biotic stress stems from various organisms, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, insects, nematodes, and mites, that exploit the biological systems of host plants. A cost-effective, non-toxic, and eco-friendly means of obtaining nanoparticles (NPs) is through biological acquisition techniques. This paper not only offers a thorough explanation of biological agents such as plants, algae, bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes, and yeast, but also presents recent data on several strategies for obtaining nanoparticles. Compared to physical, chemical, and biological methods of producing nanoparticles, the biological approach provides significant advantages, such as non-toxicity and environmental friendliness, which support its extensive use in agricultural applications. The active nanomaterials used in crop protection include metallic nanoparticles like gold, silver oxide, zinc oxide, copper oxide, and titanium oxide. The unique properties of nanomaterials—like their high specific surface area, uniform particle size, and excellent biocompatibility—enhance the effectiveness and stability of agricultural chemicals, provide effective and selective methods for crop protection, and offer potential for further improvements. This review highlights the transformative potential of NPs in plant health and crop disease management.