Effect of Biosynthesized Nanoparticles on the Germination Profile of Zea mays Under Salinity Stress

Abstract

Production of crops for optimum human sustainability has faced diverse challenges in the agricultural sector globally. Mitigating these challenges in food production has been prioritized in different agricultural-related fields of research globally. This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of biosynthesized nanoparticles on germination profile of Zea mays under salinity stress. Garden soil samples were collected at Oba, Idemili South LGA, Anambra State using a soil auger. Filamentous fungi were isolated and purified using a standard microbiological technique. The fungal isolates were characterized based on cultural and microscopic features. Fungal biomass and natural nanoparticles were prepared using standard mycological technique. The biosynthesized nanoparticles were characterized using ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometric technique while the effects of the biosynthesized nanoparticles on the germination indices of Zea mays under salinity stress were ascertained using standard germination test. The filamentous fungal isolates were identified as Fusarium species and Aspergillus niger. The biosynthesized nanoparticles as detected by UV-VIS spectrophotometer were calcium (ii) oxide nanoparticles (CaONPs) and potassium nanoparticles (KNPs). CaONPs showed higher absorbance (0.14) compared to KNPs (0.0275) at different wavelength, indicating more composition and potency. There was an increase in the % germination and germination speed in the presence of the biosynthesized nanoparticles under zero concentration (0 mM) of sodium chloride. Therefore, it is noteworthy that fungal species are capable of synthesizing nanoparticles, which are potent and environmental friendly, and can support the growth of Zea mays, even when there is a high salinity.