A new nano-biopesticide formulation combining silver nanoparticles synthesized from the leaf extract of Ocimum sanctum, popularly known as holy basil, presents itself as a potent and eco-friendly alternative to conventional pesticides aimed at tackling pests threatening jute farming. The jute hairy caterpillar, Spilosoma obliqua, is notorious for its destructive impact on jute crops, leading to significant economic losses. This innovative solution leverages the natural insecticidal properties of both the nanoparticles and the plant extract, offering enhanced effectiveness with lower environmental risks.
The research conducted by scholars at the University of Burdwan revealed the remarkable potential of the combined agents. The study highlighted how these green synthesized silver nanoparticles demonstrate lower lethal concentrations (LC50) against jute pests when compared to traditional plant extracts. For example, the nano-biopesticide exhibited LC50 values of 93.21 ppm, 23.38 ppm, and 5.96 ppm over 24, 48, and 72 hours, respectively, showcasing its superior efficacy.
Traditionally, farmers have relied heavily on chemical pesticides which, albeit effective, pose significant environmental and health risks due to their toxicity and persistence. This scenario prompted the exploration of plant-based biopesticides as safer alternatives. The Ocimum sanctum plant is known for its multiple bioactive compounds, including eugenol, with proven antimicrobial and insecticidal properties.
Leveraging nanotechnology's advantages, this research utilized green synthesis to produce stable silver nanoparticles, which afforded several benefits including improved foliar adhesion and rapid pest target action. The benefits of integrating such nanoparticles include enhanced potency and reduced overall pesticide application frequency, marking it as a revolutionary approach toward sustainable agriculture.
Specific methods employed for the synthesis involved simple heat and stirring processes, where the addition of the plant extract to silver nitrate initiated the formation of nanoparticles, indicated by color changes from yellow to brown. Characterization studies, conducted using techniques such as UV-Visible Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), confirmed the formation of nanoparticles and elucidated their interaction with the bioactive components of the plant extract.
According to the study, these nanoparticles not only penetrate the insect cuticle more effectively but also can disrupt cellular functions within the pests. One of the research team’s key findings was the synergistic action between the bioactive compounds within Ocimum sanctum and the silver nanoparticles. This dual action potentiates the insecticides' effectiveness, thereby reducing the reliance on more toxic conventional pesticides.
The results of the study indicated substantial mortality rates across various concentrations of this new nano-biopesticide, with higher rates observed as treatment duration increased. The authors reported, "The synthesized bio-encapsulated silver nanoparticles can now suitably and actively penetrate the pest’s cuticle more efficiently, ensuring higher mortality rates."
Given the promising results, attention must pivot to the challenges facing the commercialization of such nano-biopesticides. Factors such as cost-effectiveness for farmers, the stability of formulations under field conditions, and regulatory evaluations to guarantee environmental safety necessitate thorough investigation before widespread adoption. The market introduction of these advanced agricultural solutions requires compliance with strict safety standards to mitigate any potential risks to soil health and beneficial organisms.
The integration of this innovative Ocimum sanctum extract-based nano-biopesticide formulation signifies not only progress toward sustainable agricultural practices but also offers hope for reduced dependency on harmful chemical pesticides. Researchers advocate for continued examination of these formulations, as they represent the future of pest management strategies, particularly within economically significant crops like jute.
Further studies are anticipated to refine formulation techniques and thoroughly assess the impacts of application frequency and environmental factors on efficacy, thereby aiding farmers to optimize pest management effectively.