Chapter 5 - Biological activities of chitosan-based nanomaterials

Abstract

In sustainable agriculture, integrated pest and nutrient management play a vital role in using environmentally free and natural compounds for pest, disease management, soil fertility, and food safety. The biopolymer chitosan and its derivatives are synthesized from the natural compound chitin which shows promising activity in agriculture. Chitosan and its nano-composite have excellent biological activities in plant growth, development and defense. The chitosan nano-composite enhances the effectivity, bio-efficacy and bio-availability of chitosan using a controlled delivery system for pest and nutrient management. The nanoparticles of chitosan effectively work as a plant growth regulator, and growth stimulants by enhancing secondary metabolites production in plants. Chitosan and its derivatives are involved in stimulating the physiological parameter as well as plant hormones for growth and development. Moreover, chitosan-based nano-composites act as excellent fertilizers and soil conditioners by maintaining the Carbon: Nitrogen ratio. The high intake and absorption of chitosan-based nano-fertilizers and micronutrients enhance the rate of plant metabolic pathways, which results in the improvement of crop nutrient management. Chitosan and its nanoparticles persuade the plant defense mechanism by increasing immune response in plants and play a vital role in plant protection. Chitosan and its nanoparticles have excellent activity against plant pathogens including microbes, viruses, fungi, nematodes and insects. The present book chapter emphasizes on biological activities and mode of action of chitosan and its nanoparticles in agriculture for plant growth, development, protection, productivity and yield of a crop.