The effects of CuO nanoparticles on wheat seeds and seedlings and Alternaria solani fungi: in vitro study

Abstract

The paper analyses the influence of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) dispersions (0.01…1 g/L) on seed germination capacity, development and biochemical status of wheat seedlings. Also the paper presents the results of the in vitro study of effect produced by CuO NPs (0.001…0.1 g/L) on Alternaria solani fungi. The most pronounced combined positive effect on the studied parameters has been observed at 0.01 g/L concentration of copper oxide nanoparticles. Improvement of germination capacity by 14.5 per cent and a twofold increase in the root and stem length compared to the control group have been recorded at this concentration. At higher NPs content in the dispersion stimulation was combined with toxic effects (decrease of root length). A slight impact of NPs on the activity of antioxidant system enzymes has been registered at concentrations of 0.01 g/L and 1 g/L. CuO NPs at 0.001…0.1 g/L concentrations inhibited Alternaria solani mycelium development and spore germination by 34-50 per cent, but the ionic solution of CuCl2·6H2O displayed higher efficacy. The obtained results can be used for development of new micronutrient fertilizers and crop protection agents based on copper nanoparticles.