Effect of iron oxide nanoparticles on growth of plants
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Effects of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles on Plant Growth
Introduction to Iron Oxide Nanoparticles in Agriculture
Iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe NPs) have garnered significant attention in agricultural research due to their potential to enhance plant growth and productivity. These nanoparticles can act as fertilizers and growth enhancers, but their effects can vary widely depending on concentration, plant species, and environmental conditions.
Enhanced Growth and Photosynthesis
Wheat (Triticum aestivum)
Studies have shown that iron oxide nanoparticles can significantly enhance the growth and photosynthetic performance of wheat plants. High concentrations of Fe3O4 NPs (200 and 500 mg·L⁻¹) have been found to increase plant growth, photosynthesis, and respiration rates, as well as the content of photosynthetic pigments in leaves. This enhancement is influenced by light intensity and plant age. Additionally, Fe3O4 NPs have been shown to improve the availability of essential minerals like Fe, P, and K in wheat leaves.
Citrus maxima
In Citrus maxima, γ-Fe2O3 NPs at 50 mg/L significantly increased chlorophyll content and root activity, although higher concentrations (100 mg/L) led to increased malondialdehyde (MDA) formation and decreased chlorophyll content and root activity. This suggests that while Fe NPs can be beneficial at optimal concentrations, excessive amounts may induce toxicity.
Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis L.)
Iron oxide nanoparticles (nα-Fe2O3) have also been shown to enhance germination and seedling growth in evening primrose. The addition of citrate further improved these effects, increasing germination percentage, root tolerance index, and antioxidant enzyme activities, which are crucial for oxidative stress control.
Mitigation of Environmental Stress
Cadmium Contamination
In wheat, Fe NPs have been effective in reducing cadmium (Cd) toxicity. Seed priming with Fe NPs decreased Cd concentrations in roots, shoots, and grains, while also enhancing plant height, spike length, and biomass. This indicates that Fe NPs can play a significant role in mitigating heavy metal stress in plants.
Soil Salinity
Fe3O4 NPs have been found to alleviate the negative effects of soil salinity on wheat growth. Seed treatment with these nanoparticles improved growth, photosynthetic rate, and antioxidant activity under saline conditions, highlighting their potential to enhance plant resilience to abiotic stress.
Potential Toxicity and Growth Inhibition
Soybean (Glycine max)
While Fe NPs can promote growth, they can also induce growth inhibition under certain conditions. In soybean, γ-Fe2O3 NPs increased lignin content in roots and stems, leading to growth inhibition in stems due to changes in lignin monomer composition. This suggests that the impact of Fe NPs can vary significantly depending on the plant species and the specific physiological responses.
Application in Hydroponics and Other Systems
Spinach (Spinacia oleracea)
In hydroponic systems, Fe2O3 NPs have been shown to enhance the growth rate and productivity of spinach. The uptake of these nanoparticles led to increased stem and root length, biomass, and iron content in a dose-dependent manner, demonstrating their potential as effective nano-fertilizers in controlled environments.
Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium)
In chrysanthemum, Fe3O4/HA NPs significantly increased Fe uptake, chlorophyll content, and vegetative growth. The application of these nanoparticles resulted in higher nutrient uptake and improved overall plant health, suggesting their utility in ornamental horticulture.
Conclusion
Iron oxide nanoparticles offer promising benefits for plant growth and stress mitigation in various agricultural contexts. However, their effects are highly dependent on concentration, plant species, and environmental conditions. While they can enhance growth and photosynthesis and mitigate environmental stresses like heavy metal contamination and salinity, they can also induce toxicity and growth inhibition if not used appropriately. Further research is needed to optimize their application and fully understand their long-term impacts on plant health and productivity.
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