Differential response
of Paddy varieties to silver nanoparticles-based Nano-fertilizer
Kazmi Samreen, Challa Surekha and Neelapu Nageswara Rao Reddy
Res. J. Biotech.; Vol. 20(12); 73-81;
doi: https://doi.org/10.25303/2012rjbt073081; (2025)
Abstract
This study presents a comparative evaluation of two paddy (Oryza sativa L.) varieties,
Aditya Inuka 432 and BPT 5204, grown under four nano-fertilizer concentrations (5,
10, 15 and 20 mg/L). Experiments were conducted under controlled cultivation conditions
from germination to the early tillering stage (Day 1–41), with systematic measurements
of germination percentage, shoot length, root length, vigour Index, fresh weight,
plant height, tiller number and leaf pigmentation. Application of AgNP-based nano-fertilizers
significantly enhanced germination, seedling uniformity and vegetative growth in
a clear dose-dependent manner. BPT 5204 consistently outperformed Aditya Inuka 432
in root elongation, vigour index and biomass accumulation, underscoring genotype-specific
sensitivity to AgNPs. By day 41, treated plants recorded increased plant height,
higher tiller numbers, greater fresh weight and improved vigour, with T4 (20 mg/L)
producing the strongest overall effects.
Beyond plant responses, AgNP treatments improved the soil environment by enhancing
nutrient solubility and stimulating beneficial microbial activity, particularly
at higher concentrations (15–20 mg/L). These results highlight the dual benefits
of nano-fertilizers in optimizing crop growth and maintaining soil health. The findings
suggest that AgNP-based nano-fertilizers offer a sustainable strategy for improving
early-stage paddy performance, supporting precision agriculture through variety-specific
dose optimization. This work also aligns United Nations Sustainable Development
Goals (SDGs) related to food security and environmental sustainability.
