Biogenic synthesis, characterization, and evaluation of synthesized nanoparticles against the pathogenic fungus Alternaria solani

In the present study, Trichoderma harzianum culture filtrate (CF) was used as a reducing and capping agent to synthesize silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) in a quick, simple, cost-effective, and eco-friendly manner. The effects of different ratios (silver nitrate (AgNO3): CF), pH, and incubation time on the synthesis of Ag NPs were also examined. Ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectra of the synthesized Ag NPs showed a distinct surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peak at 420 nm. Spherical and monodisperse NPs were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Elemental silver (Ag) was identified in the Ag area peak indicated by energy dispersive x-ray (EDX) spectroscopy. The crystallinity of Ag NPs was confirmed by x-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) was used to examine the functional groups present in the CF. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) revealed an average size (43.68 nm), which was reported to be stable for 4 months. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to confirm surface morphology. We also investigated the in vitro antifungal efficacy of biosynthesized Ag NPs against Alternaria solani, which demonstrated a significant inhibitory effect on mycelial growth and spore germination. Additionally, microscopic investigation revealed that Ag NP-treated mycelia exhibited defects and collapsed. Apart from this investigation, Ag NPs were also tested in an epiphytic environment against A. solani. Ag NPs were found to be capable of managing early blight disease based on field trial findings. The maximum percentage of early blight disease inhibition by NPs was observed at 40 parts per million (ppm) (60.27%), followed by 20 ppm (58.68%), whereas in the case of the fungicide mancozeb (1,000 ppm), the inhibition was recorded at 61.54%

Nanomaterial-based biosensors: a new frontier in plant pathogen detection and plant disease management

Nanotechnology has significantly advanced the detection of plant diseases by introducing nano-inspired biosensors that offer distinct advantages over traditional diagnostic methods. These biosensors, enhanced with novel nanomaterials, exhibit increased sensitivity, catalytic activity, and faster response times, resulting in improved diagnostic efficiency. The increasing impact of climate-induced stress and emerging plant pathogens have created an urgent demand for real-time monitoring systems in agriculture. Nanobiosensors are revolutionizing plant disease management by enabling on-site detection of pests and weeds, facilitating precise pesticide applications. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the development and application of nanobiosensors in real-time plant disease diagnosis. It highlights key innovations, such as smartphone-integrated nanozyme biosensing and lab-on-a-chip technologies. Special emphasis is placed on the detection of molecular biomarkers, demonstrating the critical role of nanobiosensors in addressing the evolving challenges of plant disease management and agricultural sustainability

Isolation and In vitro Compatibility of Fungal Antagonists of Mango Anthracnose with Fungicides

The compatibility of antagonists of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides (Nigrospora spharica (Sacc.) E.W. Mason, Gliocladium roseum Bainier and Aspergillus sp.) in mango, with different   fungicides was tested through poisoned food technique. Two systemic fungicides viz., carbendazim (0.1% -1 g/L), hexaconazole (0.05% -1/2 ml/L) and a non-systemic fungicide viz., Sulphur (0.2% - 2g /L) were evaluated for their compatibility with potential antagonists. The antagonist Nigrospora sphaerica (95.56%) and Aspergillus sp. (91.11%) were most compatible with sulphur whereas Gliocladium roseum, was more compatible with Hexaconazol (73.11%). The results of present study are quite encouraging for the eco-friendly management of the mango anthracnose

Defoliation and Die-back an Emerging Threat to Cashew Cultivation in the Konkan Region of Maharashtra, India

Cashew is a million-dollar crop, and it is the second most important cash crop in the Konkan region of Maharashtra after mango. Till 2019, the cashew plantations in the Konkan region were free from destructive diseases leading to economic losses. But in July and August 2019, the total monthly rainfall was 1711 and 1312 mm respectively, supported by cloudy weather and high humidity above 93% which led to the sudden outbreak of defoliation followed by dieback of the new vegetative flush of the plants, throughout the region. To combat this unexpected natural calamity thorough investigations were conducted. Extensive surveys conducted during the season revealed that in the primary phase of the disease, new as well as old cashew plants suffered from severe defoliation. On the establishment of the pathogen, the infection progressed to the newly emerged main and lateral branches which consequently lost vigour, turned brown, and then black. The colonization of pathogens within the tissues of the host leads to the formation of small white encrustations on the upper surface of the dead twigs. The pathogen was isolated and identified as Cylindrocladium spp