Stimulatory and Inhibitory Effects of Nanoparticulates on Seed Germination and Seedling Vigor Indices

Abstract

Recently, there is an increasing interest in applying nanomaterials to plants for agricultural purposes due to their unique characteristics. The literature reveals that engineered nanomaterials affect seed germination, plant growth, cell structure, and function. However, little is known about the effects of engineered nanomaterials on plants, especially plants that are food and/or industrial crops. The impacts of various nanosized materials (carbon-based nanomaterials and metal or metal oxide nanoparticles) on plant physiology are complex; even the same type of these materials may have different biological impacts on various plant species. Some available studies have found the positive effects of nanomaterials on plant species; however, plenty of information is available on the toxicity of various nanomaterials on plant growth and development. A rising number of studies investigating the toxicity of engineered nanomaterials in plants have been conducted in recent years, and have generally found that both depend strongly on plant species and on the properties of the used nanomaterials. To attain the goals of nanoagriculture, detailed studies on the effects of different types of nanomaterials on seed germination and development of seedlings of valuable agricultural plant species are needed. This chapter surveys the reports of recent investigations of nanomaterials’ effects on seed germination and growth of terrestrial plants.