Neem-synthesized metallic nanoparticles as biocontrol agents against Phytophthora-associated citrus gummosis

Hadeed Ahmad, Muhammad Atiq, Muhammad Ahsan Khan, Nasir Ahmed Rajput

Abstract


Citrus gummosis, primarily caused by Phytophthora nicotianae, is one of the most destructive diseases in citrus cultivation. This study investigated the antifungal efficacy of neem-synthesized metallic nanoparticles (silver, zinc, and copper) as potential biocontrol agents against P. nicotianae under both in vitro and greenhouse conditions. Nanoparticles were synthesized using methanolic neem leaf extract and subsequently purified and characterized. In vitro assays demonstrated significant inhibition of mycelial growth, with zinc nanoparticles (ZnNPs) showing the highest antifungal activity, followed by silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and copper nanoparticles (CuNPs), in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Greenhouse trials using foliar sprays and soil drenching revealed that the combined application of ZnNPs and AgNPs resulted in the lowest disease incidence and smallest lesion size. The most effective disease suppression was achieved at a 0.75% concentration. Furthermore, nanoparticle treatments significantly enhanced root and shoot growth parameters, with the ZnNPs + AgNPs combination exhibiting the most pronounced effects. These findings highlight the dual role of neem-mediated metallic nanoparticles in suppressing citrus gummosis and promoting plant growth, providing a sustainable alternative to conventional chemical fungicides.


Keywords


Neem-mediated nanoparticles, Phytophthora gummosis, Citrus disease management, Biocontrol agents, Green nanotechnology

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.33804/pp.009.03.5842

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