Effect of Biofabricated Silver nanoparticles on Growth parameters in Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)

Abstract

Plants being the primary producer in the ecosystem and are the most significant source of food and energy for life to sustain; therefore, a better and improved understanding related to the impacts of nanoparticles on plant growth and development needs to be studied. Use of nanotechnology is one of the methods to ensure food security by improving plant growth and productivity. The current study was undertaken to explore interactions of biologically synthesized (from cyanobacterial extract) silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on growth and development of Trigonella foenum-graecum. Plant responses to AgNPs exposure in features like percentage seed germination, hypocotyl length and root length, chlorophyll content, number of branchlets, number of leaves, number of flowers, pod length, and number of seeds, were examined. The results obtained showed that out of three different concentrations (10 µg/mL, 20 µg/mL and 50 µg/mL) of AgNPs, 10 µg concentration was found to be the most relevant for growth parameters. There was a slight increase in the studied parameters at 20 µg concentration of AgNPs but higher concentration of AgNPs had showed inhibitory effects. The results obtained showed that out of three different concentrations (10 µg/mL, 20 µg/mL and 50 µg/mL) of AgNPs, 10 µg/mL concentration was found to be most relevant in the study of growth parameters. AgNPs at low concentrations (10 µg/mL and 20 µg/mL) showed positive effect on overall development of plant by enhancing the number of branchlets, leaves per plant, number of pods, and seed production. AgNPs caused toxicity to the seedlings at higher concentration and increased exposure time. Other parameters such as early flowering and delayed senescence has also been reported in AgNPs treated plants which can be used for further studies. © The Author(s) under exclusive licence to Society for Plant Research 2024.