Global food insecurities, climate change, and population increments exert enormous pressure on the existing agro-food systems. The aforementioned constraints call for the adoption of novel and result-oriented scientific innovations. Nanotechnology is an emerging and promising innovation with a great potential to significantly and sustainably promote enhanced agricultural productivity and proliferate the efficiency of food systems. Nanotechnology is the manipulation of matter at atomic and molecular levels in the production of specialized microscale-based products or devices. The application of nanotechnology in agriculture encompasses; nutrition management, insect pest and disease control, precision farming, plant breeding, and waste management. On the other hand, nanotechnology is also being applied in all facets of food systems including; production, processing, transportation, and packaging. Despite the wide applicability of nanotechnologies, elevating concerns on their potential health and environmental risks continue to sway among consumers and policymakers. Furthermore, the absence of a defined and complete global regulatory standard and framework for nanotechnology utilization derail its wide adoption and acceptability. The main thrust of this review is to present in summary the numerous nanotechnological applications in agriculture and food industries paying particular attention to the current technological trends, potential benefits, associated risks, and the future outlook.
Application of Nano-Technology in Agricultureabbasshoukat
This document provides an overview of the potential applications of nano-technology in agriculture. It discusses the problems facing Pakistani agriculture like declining productivity and food security issues. It then explains how nano-fertilizers could help address these issues by increasing nutrient use efficiency and requiring less chemical fertilizers. The document reviews various types of nano-products used in agriculture as well as their advantages like higher yields and disadvantages like potential toxicity. It provides examples of research showing improved plant growth and yields from crops treated with nano-fertilizers.
This presentation discusses fertilizers, plant nutrition, and the uses of nanotechnology in agriculture. It covers various types of fertilizers including macro and micro nutrients. It explains how nanotechnology can be applied in agriculture for smart monitoring, efficient delivery of nutrients and minerals to plants, and management of pests and diseases. The presentation shows how nanofertilizers increase crop yields and nutrient use efficiency compared to traditional fertilizers. It also discusses various experiments including hydroponic culture and minus control techniques to study the effects of mineral deficiencies and salt stress on plant growth.
ROLE OF NANO TECHNOLOGY ON AGRI-GREEN PRODUCT PRODUCTION PROCESS: EMERGING NE...IAEME Publication
Nanotechnology is one of the most important tools in modern agriculture, and in the field of
Agri-Green Technology of product Production .where, Agri-food nanotechnology is anticipated to
become a driving economic force in the near future. Agri-food themes focus on sustainability and
protection of agriculturally produced foods, including crops for human consumption and animal
feeding. Nanotechnology provides new agrochemical agents and new delivery mechanisms to
improve crop productivity, and it promises to reduce pesticide use. Nanotechnology can boost
agricultural production, and its applications include: 1) Nano formulations of agrochemicals for
applying pesticides and fertilizers for crop improvement; 2) the application of
nanosensors/nanobiosensors in crop protection for the identification of diseases and residues of
agrochemicals; 3) nanodevices for the genetic manipulation of plants; 4) plant disease diagnostics;
5) animal health, animal breeding, poultry production; and 6) postharvest management. Precision
farming techniques could be used to further improve crop yields but not damage soil and water,
reduce nitrogen loss due to leaching and emissions, as well as enhance nutrients long-term
incorporation by soil microorganisms. Nanotechnology uses include nanoparticle-mediated gene
or DNA transfer in plants for the development of insect-resistant varieties, food processing and
storage, nanofeed additives, and increased product shelf life. Nanotechnology promises to
Dr. Ramesh Chandra Rath, Puspita Acharya, Anoopa Laly and Bishnu Chanran Rout
http://www.iaeme.com/IJARET/index.asp 35 editor@iaeme.com
accelerate the development of biomass-to-fuels production technologies. Experts feel that the
potential benefits of nanotechnology for agriculture, food, fisheries, and aquaculture need to be
balanced against concerns for the soil, water, and environment and the occupational health of
workers. Raising awareness of nanotechnology in the agri-food sector, including feed and food
ingredients, intelligent packaging and quick-detection systems, is one of the keys to influencing
consumer acceptance. On the basis of only a handful of toxicological studies, concerns have arisen
regarding the safety of Nanomaterials, and researchers and companies will need to prove that
these nanotechnologies do not have more of a negative impact on the environment.
Nanotechnology is a newly initial field in recent decades on a commercial scale, in the same time increasing pollution rates in various agricultural products is a serious problem need quickly solving to increase exporting our agriculture products,
Nano materials promise many stimulating changes to enhance different crop production and fruit quality.
This document discusses the potential applications of nanotechnology in agriculture. It begins by defining nanoparticles and describing how their large surface area to volume ratio allows various nanomaterials like carbon nanotubes, quantum dots, and nanorods to be used in agriculture. Nanotechnology can be used to maximize crop yields while minimizing fertilizer, pesticide, and herbicide inputs. The document then discusses factors that influence how nanoparticles are absorbed and transported in plants. It also describes how nanotechnology could be applied to develop nanofertilizers, nanopesticides, nanoherbicides, and other products to improve agricultural production and reduce costs. In the future, reducing toxicity while improving transport of nanomaterials and determining effective nanoparticle doses will be important to enable
1. Organic farming began in the 1930s-1940s as a reaction to agriculture's growing reliance on synthetic fertilizers. Sir Albert Howard is widely considered the "father of organic farming".
2. Organic farming relies on ecological processes and cycles rather than synthetic inputs. It aims to sustain soil, ecosystem, and human health.
3. Benefits of organic farming include high nutritional quality, maintenance of soil fertility, and avoidance of pollution. Principles include health, ecology, fairness, and care.
this is about the application of nanotechnology in agriculture. that how we can secure the growth of plants and crops and make our crops better. in this ppt the use of nano-particles has discussed to avoid different pests and diseases by ruining the crops.
Nanotechnology has many potential applications in agriculture and food science. It can be used to more efficiently detect pathogens and track crops/products. At the molecular level, nanotechnology allows for targeted nutrient delivery and masking of flavors. It also enables the engineering of healthier food textures and reduced-fat options. Environmental applications include studying nanoparticle interactions, reducing agricultural waste and pollution, conserving water, and developing more effective pesticides. However, developments raise social, ethical and regulatory issues regarding human and environmental safety that require further discussion. Overall, the document outlines both promising applications of nanotechnology to improve agriculture as well as important considerations surrounding its responsible development and oversight.
Application of Nano-Technology in Agricultureabbasshoukat
This document provides an overview of the potential applications of nano-technology in agriculture. It discusses the problems facing Pakistani agriculture like declining productivity and food security issues. It then explains how nano-fertilizers could help address these issues by increasing nutrient use efficiency and requiring less chemical fertilizers. The document reviews various types of nano-products used in agriculture as well as their advantages like higher yields and disadvantages like potential toxicity. It provides examples of research showing improved plant growth and yields from crops treated with nano-fertilizers.
This presentation discusses fertilizers, plant nutrition, and the uses of nanotechnology in agriculture. It covers various types of fertilizers including macro and micro nutrients. It explains how nanotechnology can be applied in agriculture for smart monitoring, efficient delivery of nutrients and minerals to plants, and management of pests and diseases. The presentation shows how nanofertilizers increase crop yields and nutrient use efficiency compared to traditional fertilizers. It also discusses various experiments including hydroponic culture and minus control techniques to study the effects of mineral deficiencies and salt stress on plant growth.
ROLE OF NANO TECHNOLOGY ON AGRI-GREEN PRODUCT PRODUCTION PROCESS: EMERGING NE...IAEME Publication
Nanotechnology is one of the most important tools in modern agriculture, and in the field of
Agri-Green Technology of product Production .where, Agri-food nanotechnology is anticipated to
become a driving economic force in the near future. Agri-food themes focus on sustainability and
protection of agriculturally produced foods, including crops for human consumption and animal
feeding. Nanotechnology provides new agrochemical agents and new delivery mechanisms to
improve crop productivity, and it promises to reduce pesticide use. Nanotechnology can boost
agricultural production, and its applications include: 1) Nano formulations of agrochemicals for
applying pesticides and fertilizers for crop improvement; 2) the application of
nanosensors/nanobiosensors in crop protection for the identification of diseases and residues of
agrochemicals; 3) nanodevices for the genetic manipulation of plants; 4) plant disease diagnostics;
5) animal health, animal breeding, poultry production; and 6) postharvest management. Precision
farming techniques could be used to further improve crop yields but not damage soil and water,
reduce nitrogen loss due to leaching and emissions, as well as enhance nutrients long-term
incorporation by soil microorganisms. Nanotechnology uses include nanoparticle-mediated gene
or DNA transfer in plants for the development of insect-resistant varieties, food processing and
storage, nanofeed additives, and increased product shelf life. Nanotechnology promises to
Dr. Ramesh Chandra Rath, Puspita Acharya, Anoopa Laly and Bishnu Chanran Rout
http://www.iaeme.com/IJARET/index.asp 35 editor@iaeme.com
accelerate the development of biomass-to-fuels production technologies. Experts feel that the
potential benefits of nanotechnology for agriculture, food, fisheries, and aquaculture need to be
balanced against concerns for the soil, water, and environment and the occupational health of
workers. Raising awareness of nanotechnology in the agri-food sector, including feed and food
ingredients, intelligent packaging and quick-detection systems, is one of the keys to influencing
consumer acceptance. On the basis of only a handful of toxicological studies, concerns have arisen
regarding the safety of Nanomaterials, and researchers and companies will need to prove that
these nanotechnologies do not have more of a negative impact on the environment.
Nanotechnology is a newly initial field in recent decades on a commercial scale, in the same time increasing pollution rates in various agricultural products is a serious problem need quickly solving to increase exporting our agriculture products,
Nano materials promise many stimulating changes to enhance different crop production and fruit quality.
This document discusses the potential applications of nanotechnology in agriculture. It begins by defining nanoparticles and describing how their large surface area to volume ratio allows various nanomaterials like carbon nanotubes, quantum dots, and nanorods to be used in agriculture. Nanotechnology can be used to maximize crop yields while minimizing fertilizer, pesticide, and herbicide inputs. The document then discusses factors that influence how nanoparticles are absorbed and transported in plants. It also describes how nanotechnology could be applied to develop nanofertilizers, nanopesticides, nanoherbicides, and other products to improve agricultural production and reduce costs. In the future, reducing toxicity while improving transport of nanomaterials and determining effective nanoparticle doses will be important to enable
1. Organic farming began in the 1930s-1940s as a reaction to agriculture's growing reliance on synthetic fertilizers. Sir Albert Howard is widely considered the "father of organic farming".
2. Organic farming relies on ecological processes and cycles rather than synthetic inputs. It aims to sustain soil, ecosystem, and human health.
3. Benefits of organic farming include high nutritional quality, maintenance of soil fertility, and avoidance of pollution. Principles include health, ecology, fairness, and care.
this is about the application of nanotechnology in agriculture. that how we can secure the growth of plants and crops and make our crops better. in this ppt the use of nano-particles has discussed to avoid different pests and diseases by ruining the crops.
Nanotechnology has many potential applications in agriculture and food science. It can be used to more efficiently detect pathogens and track crops/products. At the molecular level, nanotechnology allows for targeted nutrient delivery and masking of flavors. It also enables the engineering of healthier food textures and reduced-fat options. Environmental applications include studying nanoparticle interactions, reducing agricultural waste and pollution, conserving water, and developing more effective pesticides. However, developments raise social, ethical and regulatory issues regarding human and environmental safety that require further discussion. Overall, the document outlines both promising applications of nanotechnology to improve agriculture as well as important considerations surrounding its responsible development and oversight.
This document discusses various applications of nanotechnology. It describes how nanotechnology can help overcome disadvantages in microelectronics by manipulating structures at the nanoscale. It also discusses uses of nanotechnology in agriculture such as nanosensors to detect plant viruses and nutrients in soil. Nanotechnology is being used in the food industry for food packaging, coatings, sensors, and to enhance nutrition. It also has applications in energy such as fuel cells and batteries. The document states nanotechnology can benefit the environment through pollution prevention, treatment, remediation, and information. Nanotechnology is utilized in cosmetics through mineral-based ingredients, nanocapsules, and nanosilver and nanogold for their antibacterial properties.
This document discusses the potential applications of nanotechnology in agriculture. It outlines how nanotechnology can be used to reduce the usage of pesticides and fertilizers through more targeted delivery methods like nano capsules and nanoparticles. It also describes how nanotechnology enables improved disease prevention, soil treatment, genetic modification, livestock monitoring, and food processing/storage. Specific tools of nanotechnology that could benefit agriculture are identified as nanoparticles, nanocapsules, nanosensors, and nanoporous zeolites. The document concludes by noting additional areas where nanotechnology could help meet UN sustainable development goals, as well as requirements needed for implementation in agriculture.
Agriculture applications of nanobiotechnologySabahat Ali
This document discusses the potential applications of nanobiotechnology in agriculture. It begins by introducing how nanoparticles can interact with agricultural hosts and tissues. It then discusses several specific applications, including using nanoparticles for plant disease management and diagnostics, as well as for delivering pesticides, nutrients, and plant hormones. The document also notes potential applications in areas like recycling agricultural waste, soil improvement, water purification, and plant breeding. It acknowledges both the promise and challenges of nanotechnology for modernizing agriculture to address issues like increasing food supply to support population growth amid changing environmental conditions.
1. Nanotechnology has many potential applications in food and agriculture including developing drought and pest resistant crops, enhancing nutrient absorption in plants, and creating smart sensors for precision farming.
2. It can also be used to develop more effective and safer pesticide and herbicide delivery systems, improve food packaging to detect spoilage, and engineer functional foods that can deliver nutrients more efficiently.
3. While nanotechnology promises to revolutionize food production and quality, its use in consumer products must ensure human and environmental safety.
This document discusses the development of a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer using hydroxyapatite nanoparticles modified with urea. Bench-scale testing showed the nanofertilizer provided slow release of nitrogen and improved phosphorus availability compared to granular urea alone. Field tests on rice crops demonstrated higher yields with the nanofertilizer when applied at 50% of the normal urea dosage. Use of such a nanofertilizer could help reduce urea losses estimated at 70% of usage in Sri Lanka, saving an estimated $44 million annually while minimizing environmental impacts.
Nanotechnology has the potential to revolutionize agriculture and food systems through applications such as precision farming that can maximize crop yields while minimizing environmental impacts. It also holds promise in areas like food packaging and safety. While nanotechnology will likely transform the entire food industry over decades, it currently plays an important role in developing more productive and cheaper agricultural outputs that require modest materials and energy.
This document discusses environmental biotechnology and environmental microbiology. Environmental biotechnology uses biotechnology to solve environmental problems, while environmental microbiology studies microbial interactions and communities in the environment. The document then provides examples of areas within environmental biotechnology and microbiology, including molecular ecology, bioremediation, biosensors, and biofuels. Molecular ecology uses genetic tools to study ecology and biodiversity. Bioremediation uses bacteria or fungi to break down hazardous waste. Biosensors use biological entities like bacteria to monitor chemical or biological levels. Biofuels are plant-derived fuels seen as more environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional fuels.
Bioaerosols are small, airborne biological materials & are subcategories of particles released from terrestrial and marine ecosystems into the atmosphere. They are ubiquitous in the environment comprised of aerosols that originated biologically such as live or dead microorganism and their metabolites, toxins, or fragments that exist widely in the environment.
Bio stimulation & Bio remediation Through Rhizosphere TechnologyVIVEK YADAV
This document discusses bio-stimulation and bioremediation through rhizosphere technology. It defines plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) as bacteria that live in soil and around plant roots that promote plant growth. PGPR can increase plant growth directly through nutrient fixation, solubilization, and phytohormone production or indirectly through stimulating the plant's immune system and reducing stress. The document explores the various modes of action PGPR use to promote plant growth including altering plant hormone levels, increasing nutrient availability, and protecting against pathogens. It also examines using PGPR to remediate contaminated soils and provides examples of field studies demonstrating the effects of different PGPR on increasing the yield of crops like fenugreek
Exploitation of Microorganisms As tool for Sustainable AgricultureNAJMALDINSULIMAN
This document provides a review of the exploitation of microorganisms as tools for sustainable agriculture. It discusses how plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) can enhance plant growth through direct and indirect mechanisms. Direct mechanisms include nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, production of plant hormones, and reducing ethylene levels. Indirect mechanisms include inducing systemic resistance in plants, competing with pathogens for nutrients, and producing protective enzymes and volatile compounds. The review examines the roles of PGPR in detail, including their ability to solubilize phosphorus and fix nitrogen, as well as regulate ethylene levels through ACC deaminase production. It explores how PGPR can act as biocontrol agents and induce systemic resistance in plants.
Abstract:Biodiversity is one of the earth’s greatest treasures. Compared to plants and animals, microbes are least explored since they are mostly considered as pathogens and very little is known about their beneficial potentiality. Hence, there arises an urgent need to raise the public awareness about its economic value by taking effective measures in exploiting and conserving the microbial diversity. An attempt has been made to discuss about the strategy of microbial screening and its applications along with future innovative practices that has to be undertaken in order to conserve its diversity. Microbiologists have just begun to isolate and study microbial life for a better understanding of its role in ecology. Only <1% of microbes in the world have been explored. Proper strategy has to be followed to study the microbial diversity which includes habitat selection, microbial isolation methods, polyphasic taxonomy studies and its application in varied fields. Apart from ex situ and in situ conservation, several innovative initiatives such as new long-term infrastructure funding mechanisms to foster multidisciplinary involvement of microbial biodiversity research centers in collaboration with collections, education and training programmes on taxonomic studies in schools and colleges, creation of repository for cultivated collections and a reference library creation of integrated center for data management and analysis, ultimately leading to national microbial diversity management policy creation.
Keyword: application, innovative initiatives. polyphasic taxonomy, screening, strategy, management policy.
There is growing interest in environmental biotechnology to help feed the world's population and maintain clean air, soil, and water. Major developments are occurring in plant and microbial engineering. Plants can be engineered for increased yields and new products, while microorganisms are used for their catalytic diversity and ease of genetic manipulation. Applications include removing sulfur from fossil fuels to reduce pollution, generating hydrogen from sunlight as a renewable energy source, and using microbes to remediate hazardous nuclear waste sites.
AUTHORED BY: JOHANNA ELSENSOHN AND KELLY SEARS
By 2050, the world’s population is estimated to exceed 9 billion people. A challenge to this rising food demand is that crops will have to be grown on the same or less land as today. Additionally, global climate change is causing considerable uncertainty in the ability of the current food production system to adapt to an unknown future.
To address these issues sustainably, scientists from many disciplines have been investigating ways to increase crop yields and prepare for a changing climate. Considerable effort has focused on enhancing the traits of the crop plants themselves, to enhance their growth, make them resistant to disease, or tolerant to environmental stressors like drought or high salinity conditions. Conversely, a growing area of research is looking at how microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, influence these plant characteristics.
The relationship between plants and microorganisms is well known. However, researchers are still working to understand the full complexity and extent of interactions between the two groups. We have seen that microbes are important for plant nutrient acquisition, plant growth and protection against disease. Certain types of bacteria are commercially available and used to increase yields and decrease fertilizer use (Farrar et al. 2014).
Biological control of the post harvest diseases of fruits.Dinithi De Silva
what is post harvest disease. Simply , Postharvest diseases are those that appear and develop after harvest. Here theses are some pictures of post harvest diseases.
Fig 01- cherry fruit rot caused by Alternaria sp.
Fig 02- mango stem end rots causative agent is Dotheiorella sp.
All postharvest diseases of fruit are caused by fungi and bacteria.
viral infections present before harvest can sometimes develop more rapidly after harvest. In general, however, viruses are not an important cause of postharvest disease. Postharvest diseases are often classified according to how infection is initiated. The so-called 'quiescent' or 'latent' infections are those where the pathogen initiates infection of the host at some point in time , but then enters a period of inactivity or dormancy until the physiological status of the host tissue changes in such a way that infection can proceed.
After The dramatic physiological changes like compositional changes physiological changes which occur during fruit ripening are often the trigger for reactivation of latent infections. It can be through direct penetration through skin, natural openings & injuries . injuries can be mechanical or caused by insects. Therefore, post harvest diseases can be arised during or after harvest.After harvest in the dramatically physiological changes like compositional changes physiological changes which occur during the fruit ripening of in triger for reactivation of the latent infection.
And also many of the physiological changes also triggers the reactivation of the latent infection mainly both the losses conditions can lead to the fungal infection because fungi are optimum at the dry conditions after that ethylene production fruit ripening cannot so it causes a lot of compositional changes in the sugar content and physiological changes in the fruit it soften the fruit covering and then it can be easily the damage so through the damage microorganisms can enter the fruits and grow inside and multiplication then causes postharvest diseases
This document discusses genetic modification and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). It notes that genetic modification involves altering the genetic makeup of living organisms using genetic engineering techniques. The document then outlines some of the environmental concerns with GMOs, including increased pesticide use leading to soil and water pollution, as well as imbalances in ecosystems. It also discusses specific concerns with the herbicide glyphosate and its effects on soil, water, and human health. The document concludes by mentioning some international agreements and laws around GMOs and environmental protection.
Microbial biotechnology uses microorganisms like bacteria and fungi to develop useful products and processes. It is a branch of biotechnology that has been used for thousands of years in activities like food production and more recently to produce medicines and other products. Microbial biotechnology has a wide scope and can be used to develop vaccines, undertake genetic engineering, produce biofuels and more.
This chapter discusses water and wastewater. It provides an overview of the hydrological cycle and sources of wastewater including domestic and industrial uses. Key physical, chemical and biological parameters of wastewater are described including suspended solids, BOD, COD, nutrients, pathogens and indicators. Methods for analyzing wastewater characteristics like oxygen sag analysis are also introduced.
Bioprospecting involves systematically searching for useful products from biological resources like plants, microorganisms, and animals that can be developed and commercialized for societal benefit. It generally consists of four phases: sample collection, isolation and characterization of compounds, screening for potential uses, and product development and commercialization. Microbes, extremophiles, fungi, algae, and other organisms provide sources for bioprospecting and have led to discoveries like antibiotics, enzymes, bioplastics, and more. While bioprospecting has benefits, issues around benefit-sharing with indigenous groups and biopiracy must be addressed.
Cartagena protocol and update imperatives for biodiversity conservationDr. Abiodun Denloye
The document discusses biosafety imperatives for biodiversity conservation in Nigeria with reference to GMOs. It begins with an introduction to the Cartagena Protocol, which provides a regulatory framework for transboundary movement of living modified organisms. It then discusses Nigeria's rich biodiversity, examples of GMOs currently in use, and the growing trade in GMO products in Nigeria. Finally, it outlines biosafety imperatives for Nigeria, including developing national biosafety regulations, monitoring for environmental and health impacts of GMOs, and collaborative research on GMO safety and evaluation.
This paper aimed at evaluating biotechnology concerning its application. Major areas of applications identified in the literature are environment, medicine, agriculture, food processing, and industry. Therefore, this review report tries to touch all the aspects of biotechnology in the field. Biotechnology has applied to food processing in most developing countries makes use of microbial inoculants to enhance properties such as the taste, aroma, shelf-life, consistency, and nutritional value of foods/dairy products. Biotechnological approaches are applied to enhance the nutritional, functional and sensory attributes of food in milk, meat, fish, and beverage processing industries. The targeted use of biotechnological methods can, amongst other things, help reduce the quantity and number of unhealthy ingredients in foods as well as remove allergenic substances
Development of a novel myconanomining approach for.pptxToobaBatool22
This document discusses the development of nano-biofertilizers using myconanomining. Myconanomining is a nanobiotechnological technique that converts bulk materials into nanostructures, which can then be used to more effectively prepare nanobiofertilizers. Nanobiofertilizers have several advantages over conventional fertilizers, including increased nutrient uptake by plants, reduced fertilizer needs, and lower environmental pollution. However, there are also some drawbacks such as potential toxicity and effects on microorganisms in the fertilizers that require further evaluation and solutions before wide application of these nanomaterials.
This document discusses various applications of nanotechnology. It describes how nanotechnology can help overcome disadvantages in microelectronics by manipulating structures at the nanoscale. It also discusses uses of nanotechnology in agriculture such as nanosensors to detect plant viruses and nutrients in soil. Nanotechnology is being used in the food industry for food packaging, coatings, sensors, and to enhance nutrition. It also has applications in energy such as fuel cells and batteries. The document states nanotechnology can benefit the environment through pollution prevention, treatment, remediation, and information. Nanotechnology is utilized in cosmetics through mineral-based ingredients, nanocapsules, and nanosilver and nanogold for their antibacterial properties.
This document discusses the potential applications of nanotechnology in agriculture. It outlines how nanotechnology can be used to reduce the usage of pesticides and fertilizers through more targeted delivery methods like nano capsules and nanoparticles. It also describes how nanotechnology enables improved disease prevention, soil treatment, genetic modification, livestock monitoring, and food processing/storage. Specific tools of nanotechnology that could benefit agriculture are identified as nanoparticles, nanocapsules, nanosensors, and nanoporous zeolites. The document concludes by noting additional areas where nanotechnology could help meet UN sustainable development goals, as well as requirements needed for implementation in agriculture.
Agriculture applications of nanobiotechnologySabahat Ali
This document discusses the potential applications of nanobiotechnology in agriculture. It begins by introducing how nanoparticles can interact with agricultural hosts and tissues. It then discusses several specific applications, including using nanoparticles for plant disease management and diagnostics, as well as for delivering pesticides, nutrients, and plant hormones. The document also notes potential applications in areas like recycling agricultural waste, soil improvement, water purification, and plant breeding. It acknowledges both the promise and challenges of nanotechnology for modernizing agriculture to address issues like increasing food supply to support population growth amid changing environmental conditions.
1. Nanotechnology has many potential applications in food and agriculture including developing drought and pest resistant crops, enhancing nutrient absorption in plants, and creating smart sensors for precision farming.
2. It can also be used to develop more effective and safer pesticide and herbicide delivery systems, improve food packaging to detect spoilage, and engineer functional foods that can deliver nutrients more efficiently.
3. While nanotechnology promises to revolutionize food production and quality, its use in consumer products must ensure human and environmental safety.
This document discusses the development of a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer using hydroxyapatite nanoparticles modified with urea. Bench-scale testing showed the nanofertilizer provided slow release of nitrogen and improved phosphorus availability compared to granular urea alone. Field tests on rice crops demonstrated higher yields with the nanofertilizer when applied at 50% of the normal urea dosage. Use of such a nanofertilizer could help reduce urea losses estimated at 70% of usage in Sri Lanka, saving an estimated $44 million annually while minimizing environmental impacts.
Nanotechnology has the potential to revolutionize agriculture and food systems through applications such as precision farming that can maximize crop yields while minimizing environmental impacts. It also holds promise in areas like food packaging and safety. While nanotechnology will likely transform the entire food industry over decades, it currently plays an important role in developing more productive and cheaper agricultural outputs that require modest materials and energy.
This document discusses environmental biotechnology and environmental microbiology. Environmental biotechnology uses biotechnology to solve environmental problems, while environmental microbiology studies microbial interactions and communities in the environment. The document then provides examples of areas within environmental biotechnology and microbiology, including molecular ecology, bioremediation, biosensors, and biofuels. Molecular ecology uses genetic tools to study ecology and biodiversity. Bioremediation uses bacteria or fungi to break down hazardous waste. Biosensors use biological entities like bacteria to monitor chemical or biological levels. Biofuels are plant-derived fuels seen as more environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional fuels.
Bioaerosols are small, airborne biological materials & are subcategories of particles released from terrestrial and marine ecosystems into the atmosphere. They are ubiquitous in the environment comprised of aerosols that originated biologically such as live or dead microorganism and their metabolites, toxins, or fragments that exist widely in the environment.
Bio stimulation & Bio remediation Through Rhizosphere TechnologyVIVEK YADAV
This document discusses bio-stimulation and bioremediation through rhizosphere technology. It defines plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) as bacteria that live in soil and around plant roots that promote plant growth. PGPR can increase plant growth directly through nutrient fixation, solubilization, and phytohormone production or indirectly through stimulating the plant's immune system and reducing stress. The document explores the various modes of action PGPR use to promote plant growth including altering plant hormone levels, increasing nutrient availability, and protecting against pathogens. It also examines using PGPR to remediate contaminated soils and provides examples of field studies demonstrating the effects of different PGPR on increasing the yield of crops like fenugreek
Exploitation of Microorganisms As tool for Sustainable AgricultureNAJMALDINSULIMAN
This document provides a review of the exploitation of microorganisms as tools for sustainable agriculture. It discusses how plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) can enhance plant growth through direct and indirect mechanisms. Direct mechanisms include nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, production of plant hormones, and reducing ethylene levels. Indirect mechanisms include inducing systemic resistance in plants, competing with pathogens for nutrients, and producing protective enzymes and volatile compounds. The review examines the roles of PGPR in detail, including their ability to solubilize phosphorus and fix nitrogen, as well as regulate ethylene levels through ACC deaminase production. It explores how PGPR can act as biocontrol agents and induce systemic resistance in plants.
Abstract:Biodiversity is one of the earth’s greatest treasures. Compared to plants and animals, microbes are least explored since they are mostly considered as pathogens and very little is known about their beneficial potentiality. Hence, there arises an urgent need to raise the public awareness about its economic value by taking effective measures in exploiting and conserving the microbial diversity. An attempt has been made to discuss about the strategy of microbial screening and its applications along with future innovative practices that has to be undertaken in order to conserve its diversity. Microbiologists have just begun to isolate and study microbial life for a better understanding of its role in ecology. Only <1% of microbes in the world have been explored. Proper strategy has to be followed to study the microbial diversity which includes habitat selection, microbial isolation methods, polyphasic taxonomy studies and its application in varied fields. Apart from ex situ and in situ conservation, several innovative initiatives such as new long-term infrastructure funding mechanisms to foster multidisciplinary involvement of microbial biodiversity research centers in collaboration with collections, education and training programmes on taxonomic studies in schools and colleges, creation of repository for cultivated collections and a reference library creation of integrated center for data management and analysis, ultimately leading to national microbial diversity management policy creation.
Keyword: application, innovative initiatives. polyphasic taxonomy, screening, strategy, management policy.
There is growing interest in environmental biotechnology to help feed the world's population and maintain clean air, soil, and water. Major developments are occurring in plant and microbial engineering. Plants can be engineered for increased yields and new products, while microorganisms are used for their catalytic diversity and ease of genetic manipulation. Applications include removing sulfur from fossil fuels to reduce pollution, generating hydrogen from sunlight as a renewable energy source, and using microbes to remediate hazardous nuclear waste sites.
AUTHORED BY: JOHANNA ELSENSOHN AND KELLY SEARS
By 2050, the world’s population is estimated to exceed 9 billion people. A challenge to this rising food demand is that crops will have to be grown on the same or less land as today. Additionally, global climate change is causing considerable uncertainty in the ability of the current food production system to adapt to an unknown future.
To address these issues sustainably, scientists from many disciplines have been investigating ways to increase crop yields and prepare for a changing climate. Considerable effort has focused on enhancing the traits of the crop plants themselves, to enhance their growth, make them resistant to disease, or tolerant to environmental stressors like drought or high salinity conditions. Conversely, a growing area of research is looking at how microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, influence these plant characteristics.
The relationship between plants and microorganisms is well known. However, researchers are still working to understand the full complexity and extent of interactions between the two groups. We have seen that microbes are important for plant nutrient acquisition, plant growth and protection against disease. Certain types of bacteria are commercially available and used to increase yields and decrease fertilizer use (Farrar et al. 2014).
Biological control of the post harvest diseases of fruits.Dinithi De Silva
what is post harvest disease. Simply , Postharvest diseases are those that appear and develop after harvest. Here theses are some pictures of post harvest diseases.
Fig 01- cherry fruit rot caused by Alternaria sp.
Fig 02- mango stem end rots causative agent is Dotheiorella sp.
All postharvest diseases of fruit are caused by fungi and bacteria.
viral infections present before harvest can sometimes develop more rapidly after harvest. In general, however, viruses are not an important cause of postharvest disease. Postharvest diseases are often classified according to how infection is initiated. The so-called 'quiescent' or 'latent' infections are those where the pathogen initiates infection of the host at some point in time , but then enters a period of inactivity or dormancy until the physiological status of the host tissue changes in such a way that infection can proceed.
After The dramatic physiological changes like compositional changes physiological changes which occur during fruit ripening are often the trigger for reactivation of latent infections. It can be through direct penetration through skin, natural openings & injuries . injuries can be mechanical or caused by insects. Therefore, post harvest diseases can be arised during or after harvest.After harvest in the dramatically physiological changes like compositional changes physiological changes which occur during the fruit ripening of in triger for reactivation of the latent infection.
And also many of the physiological changes also triggers the reactivation of the latent infection mainly both the losses conditions can lead to the fungal infection because fungi are optimum at the dry conditions after that ethylene production fruit ripening cannot so it causes a lot of compositional changes in the sugar content and physiological changes in the fruit it soften the fruit covering and then it can be easily the damage so through the damage microorganisms can enter the fruits and grow inside and multiplication then causes postharvest diseases
This document discusses genetic modification and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). It notes that genetic modification involves altering the genetic makeup of living organisms using genetic engineering techniques. The document then outlines some of the environmental concerns with GMOs, including increased pesticide use leading to soil and water pollution, as well as imbalances in ecosystems. It also discusses specific concerns with the herbicide glyphosate and its effects on soil, water, and human health. The document concludes by mentioning some international agreements and laws around GMOs and environmental protection.
Microbial biotechnology uses microorganisms like bacteria and fungi to develop useful products and processes. It is a branch of biotechnology that has been used for thousands of years in activities like food production and more recently to produce medicines and other products. Microbial biotechnology has a wide scope and can be used to develop vaccines, undertake genetic engineering, produce biofuels and more.
This chapter discusses water and wastewater. It provides an overview of the hydrological cycle and sources of wastewater including domestic and industrial uses. Key physical, chemical and biological parameters of wastewater are described including suspended solids, BOD, COD, nutrients, pathogens and indicators. Methods for analyzing wastewater characteristics like oxygen sag analysis are also introduced.
Bioprospecting involves systematically searching for useful products from biological resources like plants, microorganisms, and animals that can be developed and commercialized for societal benefit. It generally consists of four phases: sample collection, isolation and characterization of compounds, screening for potential uses, and product development and commercialization. Microbes, extremophiles, fungi, algae, and other organisms provide sources for bioprospecting and have led to discoveries like antibiotics, enzymes, bioplastics, and more. While bioprospecting has benefits, issues around benefit-sharing with indigenous groups and biopiracy must be addressed.
Cartagena protocol and update imperatives for biodiversity conservationDr. Abiodun Denloye
The document discusses biosafety imperatives for biodiversity conservation in Nigeria with reference to GMOs. It begins with an introduction to the Cartagena Protocol, which provides a regulatory framework for transboundary movement of living modified organisms. It then discusses Nigeria's rich biodiversity, examples of GMOs currently in use, and the growing trade in GMO products in Nigeria. Finally, it outlines biosafety imperatives for Nigeria, including developing national biosafety regulations, monitoring for environmental and health impacts of GMOs, and collaborative research on GMO safety and evaluation.
This paper aimed at evaluating biotechnology concerning its application. Major areas of applications identified in the literature are environment, medicine, agriculture, food processing, and industry. Therefore, this review report tries to touch all the aspects of biotechnology in the field. Biotechnology has applied to food processing in most developing countries makes use of microbial inoculants to enhance properties such as the taste, aroma, shelf-life, consistency, and nutritional value of foods/dairy products. Biotechnological approaches are applied to enhance the nutritional, functional and sensory attributes of food in milk, meat, fish, and beverage processing industries. The targeted use of biotechnological methods can, amongst other things, help reduce the quantity and number of unhealthy ingredients in foods as well as remove allergenic substances
Development of a novel myconanomining approach for.pptxToobaBatool22
This document discusses the development of nano-biofertilizers using myconanomining. Myconanomining is a nanobiotechnological technique that converts bulk materials into nanostructures, which can then be used to more effectively prepare nanobiofertilizers. Nanobiofertilizers have several advantages over conventional fertilizers, including increased nutrient uptake by plants, reduced fertilizer needs, and lower environmental pollution. However, there are also some drawbacks such as potential toxicity and effects on microorganisms in the fertilizers that require further evaluation and solutions before wide application of these nanomaterials.
Applications of Nanotechnology in food by Supratim BiswasSupratim Biswas
This document provides an overview of the application of nanotechnology in the food processing industry. It begins with definitions of nanotechnology and a brief history. It then discusses various types of nanomaterials like inorganic, surface functionalized, and organic nanomaterials. Applications of nanotechnology in food processing include nanoencapsulation to improve nutrient delivery and nano-based packaging materials for improved barrier properties, active oxygen scavenging, and intelligent sensing abilities. The document concludes by noting the rapid growth of the nanotechnology market but also limitations like unknown health impacts that require more research and regulation before wide incorporation in the food industry.
Applications Of Radioisotopes In AgricultureDaniel Wachtel
This document discusses the various applications of radioisotopes in agriculture. It describes how radioisotopes are used to study plant nutrition and fertilizer uptake, manage insect pests through techniques like sterile insect technique, and improve crops through induced mutation. Radioisotopes are also used to process and preserve foods, extending shelf life and reducing post-harvest losses. International organizations like IAEA and FAO support research on using nuclear techniques to boost agricultural productivity in a sustainable manner.
IRJET- Nutrient and Pest Management through NanotechnologyIRJET Journal
This document discusses the potential for nanotechnology to improve nutrient and pest management in agriculture. It notes that overuse of chemical fertilizers and pesticides has led to environmental pollution and health issues. The document then reviews how nano-fertilizers and nano-pesticides could provide more targeted delivery of nutrients and pest control to plants compared to conventional methods. Specifically, it discusses how nanoparticles of nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and micronutrients have shown improved uptake efficiency. It also examines how nanoparticles of metals like silver, copper and zinc may provide more effective and lower-dose pest control than traditional pesticides. The document concludes that nano-tools could help realize more sustainable agricultural practices through precise and controlled-release delivery
Nanotechnology in the Food Industry_ A Short Review _ Food Safety.pdfujjwalwagh1
Nanotechnology is being applied in many areas of the food industry due to the unique properties of nanomaterials. It is used in food production, processing, packaging, storage and bioavailability of nutrients. While it provides benefits like improved food safety and shelf life, public acceptance depends on establishing the safety of nanomaterials used. A uniform regulatory framework is needed as human exposure and use of nanotechnology in the food industry is increasing.
Factors Influencing Adoption of Improved Agricultural Technologies (IATs) amo...Premier Publishers
The study examined factors influencing adoption of improved agricultural technologies (IATs) among smallholder farmers in rural communities of Kaduna State.The study was conducted in Giwa and Sabon-gari Local Government Areas. Three objectives guided the study. The study adopted a descriptive research design. Purposive sampling technique was employed to select the farming communities for the study. Two rural communities (Bassawa and Shika) were purposely selected out of 16 villages primarily because of their age-long agricultural technologies. The sample size of the study was 200 smallholder farmers made up of 100 farmers from each of the communities which were purposively selected. Primary data were collected using a structured interview schedule, focus group discussion and in-depth interview while the secondary data which relate to the objectives of the study were collected from the office of the Kaduna State Agricultural Development Project (ADP) and National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS), ABU, Zaria. Data were analyzed using frequency and percentages. Results from the findings of the study revealed a positive significant (p<0.05) influence on adoption of agricultural technology and farmers’ educational levels, gender and age also had a positive significant influence on the adoption of technology. Therefore, the following recommendations were made: there is need to increase farmers’ capital and credit facilities and make funds accessible to the farmers. Also, it is therefore imperative for Government to ensure that policies that support the adoption of improved agricultural technologies are put in place.
The document summarizes the potential implications and applications of nanotechnology across various industries based on information from different sources. It begins by stating that nanotechnology has interdisciplinary implications that could enable economic growth if collaboration at the R&D stage is effectively promoted. It then provides a lengthy list of how nanotechnology could impact industries like agriculture, food, water management, energy, medicine, and more. Specific applications mentioned include precision farming, food safety and shelf-life extension, water filtration, and desalination. The document argues nanotechnology has potential as a general purpose technology due to its wide range of possible implications.
A Review on Future Challenges in the field of Plant BiotechnologyIRJET Journal
This document provides an overview of plant biotechnology and its future challenges. It discusses how plant biotechnology has increased food production through domestication and genetic engineering. However, further improvements are still needed to meet growing global demands. Key future challenges include increasing crop yields, developing pest and disease resistance, and producing biomaterials and biofuels without competing with food supplies. Advances in genomics, molecular techniques, and multidisciplinary approaches will be required to address these challenges and realize the full potential of plant biotechnology.
Indian agriculture feels the pain of fatigue of green revolution.
In the past 50 years, the fertilizer consumption exponentially increased from 0.5 (1960’s) to 24 million tonnes (2013) that commensurate with four-fold increase in food grain output (254 million tonnes) In order to achieve a target of 300 million tonnes of food grains and to feed the burgeoning population of 1.4 billion in 2025, the country will require 45 million tonnes of nutrients as against a current consumption level of 23 million tonnes. The sustainable agriculture and precision farming both are the urgent issues and hence the suitable agro-technological interventions are essential (e.g., nano and biotechnology) for ensuring the safety and sustainability of relevant production system.
Abiola samson fertilizer use efficiencySamsonAbiola1
Fertilizer Use Efficiency in Nigeria for Sustainable Agricultural Production discusses the importance of fertilizer for plant growth and development, and the need for sustainable agriculture. It defines fertilizer and the three main types - chemical, organic, and biofertilizers. The document advocates for the use of organic fertilizers like manure, green manure, and vermicompost in Nigeria to promote sustainable agriculture, economic growth, and environmental protection.
Nanotechnology An Innovative Approach for Smart Agricultureijtsrd
Nanotechnology is an interdisciplinary research field. In recent past efforts have been made to improve agricultural yield through exhaustive research in nanotechnology. The green revolution resulted in blind usage of pesticides and chemical fertilizers which caused loss of soil biodiversity and developed resistance against pathogens and pests as well. Nanoparticle mediated material delivery to plants and advanced biosensors for precision farming are possible only by nanoparticles or nanochips. Nanoencapsulated conventional fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides helps in slow and sustained release of nutrients and agrochemicals resulting in precise dosage to the plants. Nanotechnology based plant viral disease detection kits are also becoming popular and are useful in speedy and early detection of viral diseases. In this article, the potential uses and benefits of nanotechnology in precision agriculture are discussed. The modern nanotechnology based tools and techniques have the potential to address the various problems of conventional agriculture and can revolutionize this sector. Dr. Rajiv "Nanotechnology: An Innovative Approach for Smart Agriculture" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-6 | Issue-4 , June 2022, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd49942.pdf Paper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/physics/nanotechnology/49942/nanotechnology-an-innovative-approach-for-smart-agriculture/dr-rajiv
This document summarizes a seminar presentation on the use of nano fertilizers in agriculture. It defines nano-fertilizers as fertilizers made of nano-sized nutrient molecules coated in a polymer coating that releases nutrients when needed. Some key advantages discussed are increased nutrient use efficiency, lower requirement for chemical fertilizers, and higher crop yields. Potential disadvantages include unknown health and environmental risks. The conclusion is that with further research and addressing of risks, nano-fertilizers have potential to help feed more people sustainably.
This document summarizes a seminar presentation on the use of nano fertilizers in agriculture. It defines nano-fertilizers as fertilizers made of nano-sized nutrient molecules coated in a polymer coating that releases nutrients when needed. Some key advantages discussed are increased nutrient use efficiency, lower requirement for chemical fertilizers, and higher crop yields. Potential disadvantages include unknown health and environmental risks. The conclusion is that with further research and awareness of risks, nano-fertilizers have potential to help feed more people sustainably.
Influence of fertilizers on incidence and severity of early blight and late b...Innspub Net
The potato (Solanum tuberosum) production in the Far North Region, Cameroon is confronted with, diseases and pests. To improve the production of this plant, a study was carried out in Mouvou and Gouria to evaluate the impact of fertilizers on the development of late blight and early blight diseases of this plant. The experimental design used was a completely randomized block with 4 treatments: Mycorrhizae (MYC), NPK (20-10-10) chemical fertilizers, chicken droppings (CD) and a control (T). The plant material used was a local variety of potato (Dosa). Disease incidence and severity and rainfall were evaluated. Area Under Disease Progress Curve was calculated. At 60 DAS, mean incidences recorded for fertilizers were 5.7, 3.6, 1.8 and 0.8 % respectively for control, MYC, NPK and CD. In general, early blight severity decreased from 22.1% at 45 DAS to 0.3 % at 60 DAS. The highest AUDPC value of late blight at Mouvou site was observed in NPK treatment while potato in CD treatment had the lowest. The lowest AUDPC value of early blight was observed in CD treatment at both sites. AUDSIPC value for late blight was significantly higher in NPK treatment in both sites. The highest value of AUDPSIC of early blight was recorded in MYC treatment, 45 DAS in both sites. The average rainfall was higher in the Gouria site (716.5mm) than in Mouvou site (679 mm). The CD treatment can be recommended to the farmers for the phytosanitary protection of potatoes.
This document is a seminar paper submitted by Md. Parvez Kabir to several course instructors on the topic of nano-fertilizer for smart agriculture. The abstract indicates that the paper will discuss nano-fertilizer based smart agriculture, addressing scientific gaps and questions around the safe and effective use of nano-fertilizers for crop production. The paper contains sections on the objectives, approaches, literature review findings, summary and conclusions. The findings section defines nano-particles, nano-fertilizers, and discusses their advantages over conventional fertilizers including improved nutrient uptake efficiency and controlled release. It also discusses the concept of smart nutrient delivery systems using nano-fertilizers.
Herbicides perception and utilization among cassava farmers in Delta State, N...Open Access Research Paper
Over the years, herbicides have been widely used by farmers to control weeds in their farms. However, this study ascertained herbicides’ perception and utilisation among cassava farmers in delta state, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to: ascertain farmers knowledge about herbicide usage, ascertain cassava farmers perception of herbicide, determine cassava farmers level of herbicide utilisation; and identify constraints cassava farmers encounter with the use of herbicides. The multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select a sample size of 180 with the aid of questionnaire. Various descriptive statistics and logit regression were used for data analysis. The Results for perception reveal that eight statements were favourably perceived while three were not favourably perceive by the respondents. Statements that were favourably perceived include: herbicides can cause health problems, (mean = 3.90) use of herbicides saves labour time (mean = 3.36); herbicides make weeding easier (mean 3.76); herbicides reduce cost of weeding (mean = 4.0) while utilization of herbicides results reveals that 76% of respondents use herbicides. The respondents that do not use herbicides could be associated to ignorance, cost, and non-availability of herbicides. Several constraints were responsible for the utilization of herbicides usage included the heavy weight of the knapsack sprayers they use during herbicides application and undesired wind carriage of herbicides. The study recommends, among others, that farmers should be encouraged to participate in herbicides spraying techniques and Delta State government should subsidized the cost of herbicides for the farmers.
Metal Nanoparticles and their Safety Processing in Functional FoodsAl Baha University
This document provides a review of metal nanoparticles and their safety processing in functional foods. It discusses various nanomaterials used in food industries and their potential health effects. Some key points include:
- Nanoparticles like zinc oxide and silicon dioxide are considered safe for use as food additives by regulatory agencies. However, more research is still needed on their long-term safety.
- Nanoparticles can increase the bioavailability of nutrients like iron. Silver nanoparticles also show potential as antimicrobial agents in food packaging.
- Further research is needed to establish exposure limits for nanoparticles in occupational settings and develop standardized monitoring methods. Predictive models are also needed to evaluate nanoparticle toxicity.
- Many nanoproducts
Nanotechnology is one of the most rapidly advancing sciences and possess potential to revolutionize many disciplines of science, technology, medicine and agriculture. Conversion of macromaterials in to nano size particles (1-100 nm) gives birth to new characteristics and the material behaves differently. Nanoparticles can be produced by different methods, chemical and biological, the former is commercially used. Nanomaterials can be potentially used in the crop protection, especially in the plant disease management. Nanoparticles may act upon pathogens in a way similar to chemical pesticides or the nanomaterials can be used as carrier of active ingredients of pesticides, host defence inducing chemicals, etc. to the target pathogens. Because of ultra-small size, nanoparticles may hit/target virus particles and may open a new field of virus control in plants.
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Evaluation of Agro-morphological Performances of Hybrid Varieties of Chili Pe...Premier Publishers
In Benin, chilli pepper is a widely consumed as vegetable whose production requires the use of performant varieties. This work assessed, at Parakou and Malanville, the performance of six F1 hybrids of chilli including five imported (Laali, Laser, Nandi, Kranti, Nandita) and one local (De cayenne), in completely randomized block design at four replications and 15 plants per elementary plot. Agro-morphological data were collected and submitted to analysis of variance and factor analysis of mixed data. The results showed the effects of variety, location and their interactions were highly significant for most of the growth, earliness and yield traits. Imported hybrid varieties showed the best performances compared to the local one. Multivariate analysis revealed that 'De cayenne' was earlier, short in size, thin-stemmed, red fruits and less yielding (≈ 1 t.ha-1). The imported hybrids LaaliF1 and KrantiF1 were of strong vegetative vigor, more yielding (> 6 t.ha-1) by developing larger, long and hard fruits. Other hybrids showed intermediate performances. This study highlighted the importance of imported hybrids in improving yield and preservation of chili fruits. However, stability and adaptation analyses to local conditions are necessary for their adoption.
An Empirical Approach for the Variation in Capital Market Price Changes Premier Publishers
The chances of an investor in the stock market depends mainly on some certain decisions in respect to equilibrium prices, which is the condition of a system competing favorably and effectively. This paper considered a stochastic model which was latter transformed to non-linear ordinary differential equation where stock volatility was used as a key parameter. The analytical solution was obtained which determined the equilibrium prices. A theorem was developed and proved to show that the proposed mathematical model follows a normal distribution since it has a symmetric property. Finally, graphical results were presented and the effects of the relevant parameters were discussed.
Influence of Nitrogen and Spacing on Growth and Yield of Chia (Salvia hispani...Premier Publishers
Chia is an emerging cash crop in Kenya and its production is inhibited by lack of agronomic management information. A field experiment was conducted in February-June and May-August 2021, to determine the influence of nitrogen and spacing on growth and yield of Chia. A randomized complete block design with a split plot arrangement was used with four nitrogen rates as the main plots (0, 40, 80, 120 kg N ha-1) and three spacing (30 cm x 15 cm (s1), 30 cm x 30 cm (s2), 50 cm x 50 cm (s3)). Application of 120 kg N ha-1 significantly increased (p≤0.05) vegetative growth and seed yield of Chia. Stem height, branches, stem diameter and leaves increased by 23-28%, 11-13%, 43-55% and 59-88% respectively. Spacing s3 significantly increased (p≤0.05) vegetative growth. An increase of 27-74%, 36-45% and 73-107% was recorded in number of leaves, stem diameter and dry weight, respectively. Chia yield per plant was significantly higher (p≤0.05) in s3. However, when expressed per unit area, s1 significantly produced higher yields. The study recommends 120 kg N ha-1 or higher nitrogen rates and a closer spacing of 15 cm x 30 cm as the best option for Chia production in Kenya.
Enhancing Social Capital During the Pandemic: A Case of the Rural Women in Bu...Premier Publishers
The document discusses a case study of enhancing social capital among rural women in Bukidnon Province, Philippines during the COVID-19 pandemic through a livelihood project. Key findings include:
1) Technical trainings provided by the project increased the women's knowledge, allowing them to generate additional household income through vegetable gardening during the pandemic.
2) The women's social capital, as measured by groups/networks, trust, and cooperation, increased by 15.5% from 2019 to 2020 through increased participation in their association.
3) Main occupations, income sources, and ethnicity influenced the women's social capital. The project enhanced social ties that empowered the rural women economically and socially despite challenges of the pandemic.
Impact of Provision of Litigation Supports through Forensic Investigations on...Premier Publishers
This paper presents an argument through the fraud triangle theory that the provision of litigation supports through forensic audits and investigations in relation to corporate fraud cases is adequate for effective prosecution of perpetrators as well as corporate fraud prevention. To support this argument, this study operationalized provision of litigation supports through forensic audit and investigations, data mining for trends and patterns, and fraud data collection and preparation. A sample of 500 respondents was drawn from the population of professional accountants and legal practitioners in Nigeria. Questionnaire was used as the instrument for data collection and this was mailed to the respective respondents. Resulting responses were analyzed using the OLS multiple regression techniques via the SPSS statistical software. The results reveal that the provision of litigation supports through forensic audits and investigations, fraud data mining for trends and patterns and fraud data collection and preparation for court proceedings have a positive and significant impact on corporate fraud prevention in Nigeria. This study therefore recommends that regulators should promote the provision of litigation supports through forensic audits and investigations in relation to corporate fraud cases in publicly listed firms in Nigeria, as this will help provide reports that are acceptable in court proceedings.
Improving the Efficiency of Ratio Estimators by Calibration WeightingsPremier Publishers
It is observed that the performances of most improved ratio estimators depend on some optimality conditions that need to be satisfied to guarantee better estimator. This paper develops a new approach to ratio estimation that produces a more efficient class of ratio estimators that do not depend on any optimality conditions for optimum performance using calibration weightings. The relative performances of the proposed calibration ratio estimators are compared with a corresponding global [Generalized Regression (GREG)] estimator. Results of analysis showed that the proposed calibration ratio estimators are substantially superior to the traditional GREG-estimator with relatively small bias, mean square error, average length of confidence interval and coverage probability. In general, the proposed calibration ratio estimators are more efficient than all existing estimators considered in the study.
Urban Liveability in the Context of Sustainable Development: A Perspective fr...Premier Publishers
Urbanization and quality of urban life are mutually related and however it varies geographically and regionally. With unprecedented growth of urban centres, challenge against urban development is more in terms of how to enhance quality of urban life and liveability. Making sense of and measuring urban liveability of urban places has become a crucial step in the context of sustainable development paradigm. Geographical regions depict variations in nature of urban development and consequently level of urban liveability. The coastal regain of West Bengal faces unusual challenges caused by increasing urbanization, uncontrolled growth, and expansion of economic activities like tourism and changing environmental quality. The present study offers a perspective on urban liveability of urban places located in coastal region comprising of Purba Medinipur and South 24 Parganas districts. The study uses the liveability standards covering four major pillars- institutional, social, economic and physical and their indicators. This leads to develop a City Liveability Index to rank urban places of the region, higher the index values better the urban liveability. The data for the purpose is collected from various secondary sources. Study finds that the eastern coastal region of the country covering state of West Bengal depicts variations in index of liveability determined by physical, economic, social and institutional indicators.
Transcript Level of Genes Involved in “Rebaudioside A” Biosynthesis Pathway u...Premier Publishers
Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni is a plant which has recently been used widely as a sweetener. This medicinal plant has some components such as diterpenoid glycosides called steviol glycosides [SGs]. Rebaudioside A is a diterpenoid steviol glycoside which is 300 times sweeter than table sugar. This study was done to investigate the effect of GA3 (50 mg/L) on the expression of 14 genes involved in Rebaudioside A biosynthesis pathway in Stevia rebaudiana under in vitro conditions. The expression of DXS remarkably decreased by day 3. Also, probably because of the negative feedback of GA3 on MEP-drived isoprenes, GGDS transcript level reached its lowest amount after GA3 treatment. The abundance of DXR, CMS, CMK, MCS, and CDPS transcripts showed a significant increase at various days after this treatment. A significant drop in the expression levels of KS and UGT85C2 is detected during the first day. However, expression changes of HDR and KD were not remarkable. Results revealed that the level of transcript of UGT74G1 and UGT76G1 up regulated significantly 4 and 2 times higher than control, respectively. However, more research needs to shed more light on the mechanism of GA3 on gene expression of MEP pathway.
Multivariate Analysis of Tea (Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze) Clones on Mor...Premier Publishers
Information on genetic variability for biochemical characters is a prerequisite for improvement of tea quality. Thirteen introduced tea clones characterized with objective; assessing tea clones based on morphological characters at Melko and Gera research stations. The study was conducted during 2017/18 cropping season on experimental plots in RCBD with three replications. Data recorded on morphological traits like days from pruning to harvest, height to first branch, stem diameter, leaf serration density, leaf length, leaf width, leaf size, petiole length, leaf ratio, internode length, shoot length, number of shoot, canopy diameter, hundred shoot weight, fresh leaf yield per tree. Cluster analysis of morphological trait grouped into four clusters indicated, the existence of divergence among the tested clones. The maximum inter-cluster distance was between clusters I and IV (35.27) while the minimum inter cluster distance was observed between clusters I and II (7.8).Principal components analysis showed that the first five principal components with eigenvalues greater than one accounted 86.45% for 15 morphological traits. Generally, the study indicated presence of variability for several morphological traits. However, high morphological variation between clones is not a guarantee for a high genetic variation; therefore, molecular studies need to be considered as complementary to biochemical studies.
Causes, Consequences and Remedies of Juvenile Delinquency in the Context of S...Premier Publishers
This research work was designed to examine nature of juvenile offences committed by juveniles, causes of juvenile delinquency, consequences of juvenile delinquency and remedies for juvenile delinquency in the context of Sub-Saharan Africa with specific reference to Eritrea. Left unchecked, juvenile delinquents on the streets engage in petty theft, take alcohol or drugs, rape women, rob people at night involve themselves in criminal gangs and threaten the public at night. To shed light on the problem of juvenile delinquency in the Sub-Saharan region data was collected through primary and secondary sources. A sample size of 70 juvenile delinquents was selected from among 112 juvenile delinquents in remand at the Asmara Juvenile Rehabilitation Center in the Eritrean capital. The study was carried out through coded self-administered questionnaires administered to a sample of 70 juvenile delinquents. The survey evidence indicates that the majority of the juvenile respondents come either from families constructed by unmarried couples or separated or divorced parents where largely the father is missing in the home or dead. The findings also indicate that children born out of wedlock, families led by single mothers, lack of fatherly role models, poor parental-child relationships and negative peer group influence as dominant causes of juvenile infractions. The implication is that broken and stressed families are highly likely to be the breeding grounds for juvenile delinquency. The survey evidence indicates that stealing, truancy or absenteeism from school, rowdy or unruly behavior at school, free-riding in public transportation, damaging the book of fellow students and beating other young persons are the most common forms of juvenile offenses. It is therefore, recommended that parents and guardians should exercise proper parental supervision and give adequate care to transmit positive societal values to children. In addition, the government, the police, prosecution and courts, non-government organizations, parents, teachers, religious leaders, education administrators and other stakeholders should develop a child justice system that strives to prevent children from entering deeper into the criminal justice process.
The Knowledge of and Attitude to and Beliefs about Causes and Treatments of M...Premier Publishers
Stigma and discrimination associated with mental illness are a common occurrence in the Sub-Saharan region including Eritrea. Numerous studies from Sub-Saharan Africa suggest that stigma and discrimination are major problems in the community, with negative attitudes and behavior towards people with mental illness being widespread. In order to assess the whether such negative attitudes persist in the context of Eritrea this study explored the knowledge and perceptions of 90 Eritrean university students at the College of Business and Economics, the University of Asmara regarding the causes and remedies of mental illness A qualitative method involving coded self-administered questionnaires administered to a sample of 90 university students to collecting data at the end of 2019. The survey evidence points that almost 50% of the respondents had contact with a mentally ill person suggesting that the significant number of the respondents experienced a first-hand encounter and knowledge of mental illness in their family and community. The findings show an overall greater science-based understanding of the causes of mental illness to be followed by recommended psychiatric treatments. The survey evidence indicates that the top three leading causes of mental illness in the context of Eritrea according to the respondents are brain disease (76%), bad events in the life of the mentally ill person (66%) and substance abuse or alcohol taking, smoking, taking drugs like hashish. (54%). The majority of the respondents have a very sympathetic and positive outlook towards mentally ill persons suggesting that mentally illness does not simply affect a chosen individual rather it can happen to anybody regardless of economic class, social status, ethnicity race and religion. Medical interventions cited by the majority of the respondents as being effective treatments for mental illness centered on the idea that hospitals and clinics for treatment and even cures for psychiatric disease. Changing perceptions of mental illnesses in Eritrea that paralleled the very caring and sympathetic attitudes of the sample university students would require raising public awareness regarding mental illness through education, using the mass media to raise public awareness, integrating mental health into the primary health care system, decentralizing mental health care services to increase access to treatment and providing affordable service to maintain positive treatment outcomes.
Effect of Phosphorus and Zinc on the Growth, Nodulation and Yield of Soybean ...Premier Publishers
This study investigated the effects of phosphorus and zinc on the growth, nodulation, and yield of two soybean varieties in Nigeria. Phosphorus application significantly affected growth, nodulation, yield, and some yield components, with 60 kg P2O5/ha giving the highest growth and yield. Phosphorus also increased nodulation, with 30 kg P2O5/ha providing the highest nodulation. Zinc application did not significantly affect most growth characters or nodulation, except for reducing plant height. Phosphorus increased soybean yield significantly to 1.9 t/ha compared to the control of 1.7 t/ha. Protein and oil contents were not significantly affected by phosphorus but were by zinc
Influence of Harvest Stage on Yield and Yield Components of Orange Fleshed Sw...Premier Publishers
A field experiment was conducted at Adami Tullu Agricultural Research Center in 2018 under rainfed condition with supplementary irrigation to determine the influence of harvest stage on vine yield and tuberous root yield of orange fleshed sweet potato varieties. The experiment consisted of four harvest stages (105, 120, 135 and 150 days after planting) and Kulfo, Tulla and Guntute varieties. A 4 X 3 factorial experiment arranged in randomized complete block design with three replications was used. Interaction of harvest stage and variety significantly influenced above ground fresh biomass, vine length, marketable tuberous root weight per hectare, commercial harvest index and harvest index. The highest mean values of above ground fresh biomass (66.12 t/ha) and marketable tuberous root weight (56.39 t/ha) were produced by Guntute variety harvested at 135 days after planting. Based on the results, it can be recommended that, farmers of the study area can grow Guntute variety by harvesting at 135 days after planting to obtain optimum vine and tuberous root yields.
Performance evaluation of upland rice (Oryza sativa L.) and variability study...Premier Publishers
This study evaluated 13 upland rice varieties over two locations in Ethiopia for yield and other traits. Significant differences were found among varieties for several traits. The highest yielding varieties were Chewaka, Hiddassie, and Fogera 1. Chewaka yielded 5395.8 kg/ha on average, 25.8-35% more than the check. Most varieties matured within 120-130 days. High heritability was found for days to heading, panicle length, and grain yield, indicating these traits can be easily improved through selection. Grain yield also had high genetic variation and heritability with genetic advance, suggesting yield can be improved through selection. This study identified variability that can be used
Response of Hot Pepper (Capsicum Annuum L.) to Deficit Irrigation in Bennatse...Premier Publishers
This study was conducted at Enchete kebele in Benna-Tsemay Woreda, South Omo Zone to evaluate the response of hot pepper to deficit irrigation on yield and water productivity under furrow irrigation system. The experiment comprised four treatments (100 % of ETc, 85% of ETc, 70 % of ETc and 50% of ETc), respectively. The experiment was laid out in RCBD and replicated four times. The two years combined yield results indicated that, the maximum total yield (20.38 t/ha) was obtained from 100% ETc while minimum yield (12.92 t/ha) was obtained from 50% of ETc deficit irrigation level. The highest WUE 5.22 kg/ha mm-1 was obtained from 50% of ETc. Treatment of 100% ETc irrigation application had highest benefit cost ratio (4.5) than all others treatments. Applying 50% of ETc reduce the yield by 37% when compared to 100 % ETc. Accordingly, to achieve maximum hot pepper yield in areas where water is not scarce, applying 100% ETc irrigation water application level throughout whole growing season under furrow irrigation system is recommended. But, in the study area water scarcity is the major limiting factor for crop production. So, it is possible to get better yield and water productivity of hot pepper when we apply 85% ETc irrigation water throughout growing season under furrow irrigation system.
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2. Nanotechnology Applications in Crop Production and Food Systems
Ndlovu et al. 625
resource depleted communities. Sabourin and Ayande
(2015) stated that, the adoption of nanotechnology can
promote development and transformation in the food
sector, enhance agricultural productivity, and industrial
economic growth by a 30% margin (Average: US$0.9
trillion). The high potential nature of nanotechnology
render it more suitable for less-developed countries and
economies (Rashidi and Khosravi-Darani, 2011).
Furthermore, the adoption of nanotechnology can increase
the competitiveness of the agricultural industry and boost
its annual growth rate (Sabourin and Ayande, 2015). The
main thrust of nanotechnologies in agriculture is to
minimize the use of pesticides and fertilizers; to reduce
nutrient losses during fertilization and; to increase overall
yield margins of cultivated crops through optimal nutrient
management (Fawzy et al., 2018; Abobatta, 2018).
Prominent industry players such as Syngenta, BASF,
Monsanto, Cargill, and Bayer Crop Science are currently
undertaking research and commercialization of nano-
derived agrochemicals and seeds (Lyons, 2010).
The rapid advances in nanotechnology are also
transforming many food science domains, especially
processing, functionality, packaging, safety, storage,
transportation aspects of food (Bajpai et al., 2018) and
other marketing facilities (Joshi et al., 2019).
Nanotechnologies are currently shifting the face of the
food industry by reducing losses from food spoilage,
creating new business possibilities (nano-products) and
providing safety assurance platforms. The food industry
heavyweights (for instance; Altria, H.J. Heinz, Nestle and
Unilever) have been investing heavily in research and
development of nanoproducts over the past years (Ozimek
et al., 2010). This recorded interest is a true testament to
the perceived potential benefits of using
nanotechnologies.
However, the future impacts of nanotechnology to
agriculture, health and safety is of prime interest and
debate among the concerned stakeholders especially
upon mirroring on similar issues and concerns raised on
some previously implemented emerging technologies
(Chung et al., 2017; Roco et al., 2011). The potential risk
to human health, animals and the environment should be
assessed and prioritized (Dimitrijevic et al., 2015). Meetoo
(2011) asserted that, no regulatory or statutory standards
have been put in place on the global market to ensure
proper labeling of all food products containing
nanoparticles. Despite the concerns on the potential risk of
some nanomaterials, nanotechnology remains a
sustainable and a significant alternative in bringing change
and increasing the efficiency of agricultural and food
systems (Elemike et al., 2019).
Objectives of this Review
a) To outline the applications of nanotechnologies in the
agricultural and food industries, and;
b) To assess the adoption implications and future potential
of nanotechnology in agricultural and food systems.
Application of Nanotechnology in Agriculture
Agricultural applications of nanotechnology have been
widely reported via numerous platforms over the years.
Joshi et al. (2019) highlighted that, the main purpose of
nanotechnology in agriculture is to minimize the volume of
spread chemicals, reduce nutrient losses during
fertilization, and increase the crop yield through nutrient
and pest management. Additionally, nanotechnology
enhances the performance and acceptability of agricultural
technologies by increasing their effectiveness and safety
in use (Iavicoli et al., 2017;Rawat et al., 2018;Srilatha,
2011).
Nutrient Management
Nanotechnology is utilized for nutrient management in
cropping systems through nanotechnological applications
such as nanofertilizers, nanocoating, nanoescapsulation,
nanotubes, growth regulators and zerovalent particles.
Mikkelsen (2018) underscored that, nanofertilizers are
classified into three main classes namely: (a) nanoscale
fertilizers (nanomaterials containing nutrients); (b)
nanoscale coating (nanoparticles coated or loaded on
traditional fertilizers i.e. nanocoating) and; (c) nanoscale
additives (nanoscale additives mixed with traditional
fertilizers). Nanofertilizers have a high surface area and
high supply at an active site which increase their
absorption rates by plants and ultimately helps in
minimizing environmental pollution (El-Ghamry et al.,
2018;Joshi et al., 2019). Nanofertilizers (e.g., zeolites and
nanoclays) slowly release nutrients throughout the life
cycle of the crop thereby reducing the risks of leaching,
adsorption, surface runoff and decomposition (Joshi et al.,
2019). Zeolites are naturally occurring minerals that have
a honeycomb-like layered crystal structure which can be
loaded with macronutrients and essential micronutrients
needed for plant growth (Joshi et al., 2019). The slow
mineral release nature of zeolites enhances the nutrient
use efficiency rates of crops. Essential micronutrients may
also be foliar applied through nanotechnology.
Cieschi et al. (2019) conducted an iron availability
experiment with three iron-humic nanofertilizers (57Fe-
NFs) on a calcareous soil pot trial under growth chamber
conditions. The research compared the iron nutrition
contribution of the three hybrid nanomaterials in iron-
deficient soybean plants. The nanofertilizers allowed
continuous iron uptake and exhibited high shoot fresh
weight. Janmohammadi et al. (2017) also carried out an
experiment to compare the effects of nanostructured
fertilizers (Mn, Zn, Fe) and farmyard manure (Zero (M1),
20 (M2) t/ha) on agronomical attributes and yield of
common sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.). The study
exhibited the best performance levels from the nano-
chelated Zn and manure combination treatments.
3. Nanotechnology Applications in Crop Production and Food Systems
Int. J. Plant Breed. Crop Sci. 626
Furthermore, Fe and Zn application increased achene
yield, oil concentration and the harvest index of sunflower.
Furthermore, Kale and Gawade (2016) evaluated the
effect of combining N (15%): P (15%): K (15%) and ZnO
nanoparticles (ZnO NP) on brinjal (Solanum melongena L)
growth attributes. The research concluded that, the
combination increased yield and biomass of brinjal by 38%
and 21% respectively.
Nanocoating is one of the most common strategies
utilized in nano-nutrient supplementation. In this
procedure, traditional fertilizers are coated with
nanoparticles to enhance their stability in the soil and
absorption coefficients by plants. Nanocoated fertilizers
have low dissolution rates in the soil (Duhan et al., 2017)
which increases their soil lifespan and availability for plant
uptake. A good example of a nanocoated fertilizer is the
Slow-soluble Released fertilizers (SRFs). SRFs are made
by coating the traditional fertilizer granules with
nanomaterials which promote the slow release of nutrients
for plant uptake (Fawzy et al., 2018). Nanocoating nitrogen
and phosphate fertilizers will be beneficial in meeting the
crop and soil demands (Duhan et al., 2017). The release
of nutrients as per crop requirements can also be regulated
through the use of nanotubes (Fawzy et al., 2018).
Nanotubes are organic or inorganic atomic sheets
arranged in a tube structure which can be loaded with plant
nutrients.
Nanoencapsulation is the technology of loading liquid,
solid or gas nanoparticles in a secondary matrix to form
nanocapsules. Nanoecapsulation plays a pivotal role in
protecting the environment by reducing evaporation and
leaching of harmful substances (Duhan et al., 2017).
Nanoencapsulated fertilizers are characterized by their
slow release of nutrients for plant uptake properties (as
shown in Fig 1 and 3). Chitosan and Carrageenan are
secondary nano-materials that are normally used in
encapsulating fertilizers, pesticides or herbicides. Duhan
et al. (2017) highlighted that, the addition of nitrogen,
phosphorus and potassium was found to increase the
stability of the chitosan-polymethacrylic acid (CS-PMAA)
colloidal suspension.
Nanotechnology can be utilized for ensuring the availability
of ions in plant utilizable forms and at rates suitable for
plant growth (Mukhopadhyay, 2014). Mukhopadhyay
(2014) explained that, the ion adsorption, surface area,
cation exchange capacity (CEC), and complexation
functions of clays might be multiplied further when brought
to a nanoscale. The ability of soils to hold on to nutrients is
enhanced by the increase in CEC. Furthermore, the
application of zerovalent particles of iron with high
adsorption affinity for organic compounds can also be
harnessed for soil remediation in pesticides contaminated
arable lands (Mukhopadhyay, 2014). Furthermore,
compounds of Titanium and Silicon nanoparticles have
been found to enhance the nitrate reductase action and
the absorption capacity to water and fertilizer in soybean
plants (Ali et al., 2018).
Plant regulators such as nano-5 and Nano-Gro are also
being produced to enhance the hormonal effects in plants
(Joshi et al., 2019). Syngenta has been selling a nano-
formulated plant growth regulator under the trade name
Primo MAXX for several years (Miller and Senjen, 2008).
Plant hormones are directly involved in all development
processes and play a role in the ability of plants to absorb
nutrients from the soil. However, the absorption efficiency
and overall effects of nanomaterials on the metabolic
functions and growth vary among plants (Duhan et al.,
2017).
Fig 1: A Schematic Illustration of the Nutrient/Pesticide/
Herbicide Controlled Release Mechanism.
Adapted from: Duhan et al. (2017)
Precision Agriculture
Precision agriculture or farming is the development and
utilization of wireless networking and miniaturization of
sensors for assessing, monitoring, and controlling
agricultural practices (Shang et al., 2019). It utilizes
computers, GPS and remote sensing devices in
measuring highly-localized environmental conditions and
aid in determining crop growth efficiency and existing
problems (Duhan et al., 2017). Precision farming
decreases agricultural wastes thereby participating in
minimizing environmental pollution (Anjum and Pradhan,
2018; Gul et al., 2014). Joshi et al. (2019) asserted that,
precision agriculture will continue to benefit immensely
from nanotechnology through enhanced nutrient
absorption by plants, efficient and targeted utilization of
inputs and disease detection. The application of
nanomaterials in precision agriculture enhances the
effectiveness of operations. Nanomaterials positively
influence the level of crop productivity by enhancing the
efficiency of agri-inputs utilization through site-targeted
and controlled nutrient delivery facilitation (Shang et al.,
2019). Joshi et al. (2019) stressed that; the integration of
nanomaterials, remote sensing and the global positioning
system (GPS) could hasten the detection of insect pest
infestations or drought and nutrient deficiency stress
incidences based on spectral images. Furthermore, the
use of nanosensors in precision agriculture and
4. Nanotechnology Applications in Crop Production and Food Systems
Ndlovu et al. 627
nanomaterials for site-specific water and soil conservation
(e.g. Nano and Geohumus) helps in the efficient utilization
of natural resources (Joshi et al., 2019).
Nanonetworks are also being used in advanced precision
farming projects for monitoring and detection of various
field-based profiles (Fig 2). A nanonetwork is a group of
inter-connected nanomachines assembled to perform
computing, sensing, data storage, and actuation.
Nanonetworks gives automatic alerts on the input status or
profile for efficient usage of fertilizers, pesticides, and
water (Marchiol, 2018). The alerts provide a significant
base for timely and accurate decision-making in
sustainable crop production (Marchiol, 2018).
Furthermore, wireless nanosensors are also being utilized
to monitor crop disease incidences and growth rates,
nutrient use efficiency, and field environmental conditions
(He et al., 2019).
Fig 2: Nano-network System for Plant Monitoring
Operations. Source:Marchiol (2018)
Pest and Disease Management
Nanotechnologies have been incorporated in pest (i.e.
insects and weeds) and plant disease management
research schemes targeting the timely detection and
control in major crops. Nanomaterials of different forms
have been shown to be efficient in pest and disease
management (Anand and Bhagat, 2019). Nanotechnology
in crop pest and disease management is applied via two
mechanisms namely: (a) nanoparticles used as the main
control agent (complete pesticides or part formulations), or
(b) nanoparticles used as carriers of traditional pesticides
(Worrall et al., 2018). Nanopesticides may be
encapsulated in nanoparticles (Fig 3) to ensure the
controlled release and, nano-emulsions for good control of
pests (for example the Allosperse Delivery System),
adjuvant and Nano revolution-2 (Joshi et al., 2019).
Nanomaterials such as silver ions, polymeric
nanoparticles, iron oxide and gold nanoparticles are
currently used as pesticides (Ali et al., 2018). Silver
nanoparticles (AgNPs) serves a dual purpose of plant
disease management and plant growth enhancement
(Anand and Bhagat, 2019). Nanosilver has a strong
bactericidal and a broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties
and controls spore-producing fungal pathogens (Agrawal
and Rathore, 2014).
Nanopesticides have high permeability implying that less
volume is required per application which ultimately
translates to reduced costs (Fawzy et al., 2018).
Nanopesticides also increase the wettability and
dispersion of pesticide formulations thereby decreasing
chemical runoff and unwanted pesticide movement
(Handford et al., 2014). Microencapsulation (Fig 1) has
been employed as a reliable tool for hydrophobic
pesticides since it increases their dispersion in aqueous
mediums and induces a controlled-release profile of the
active compounds (He et al., 2019;Sekhon, 2014). The
insecticide ethiprole contains Polylactic acid and
polycaprolactone nanospheres as encapsulation agents
(Sekhon, 2014). Bioefficacy studies of nanoescapsulated
Immidacropid (1-(6 chloro-3-pyridinylmethyl)-N-nitro
imidazolidin-2-ylideneamine) was conducted on whitefly
(Bemisiatabaci Gennadius) and stem fly
(Melanagromyzasojae Zehntmer) and exhibited better
pest control in soybean (Sekhon, 2014). On the other
hand, research has also reported that, herbicide
penetration through tissues and cuticles can be enhanced
through the use of nanocapsules which allow the slow and
constant release of the active compounds (Sekhon, 2014).
Fig 3: (a) Nanocapsule Model with macro/microelements.
(b) Deposition after leaf-spray treatment.
Source: Marchiol (2018)
Nanomaterials have been reported to control several
diseases including powdery mildew in major crops such as
pumpkin. Research experiments have also shown that
fungal hyphae growth and conidial germination are
inhibited significantly by nanomaterials especially silver
and copper nanoparticles (Gul et al., 2014). Chitosan
nanoparticles are a special product of nanotechnology
5. Nanotechnology Applications in Crop Production and Food Systems
Int. J. Plant Breed. Crop Sci. 628
which is being used for seed treatment and as a
biopesticide for fungal infections (Duhan et al., 2017).
Furthermore, nano-coating seeds with elemental forms of
Mn, Zn, Pt, Pa, Ag, and Au protect seeds from pathogen
infestations (Agrawal and Rathore, 2014). Studies have
also reported that, small-sized particles of sulfur
nanoparticles (35 nm) have a high efficacy in preventing
fungal growth in tomato, potato, grape and apple from
different diseases in organic farming (Joshi et al., 2019).
Furthermore, the use of capric oxide in controlling tomato
diseases achieved 95% efficiency with very low
concentrations as shown in experiments documented by
Fawzy et al. (2018). Studies conducted on maize showed
that, the application of nanosilica (20–40 nm) improved
resistance against Fusarium oxysporum and Aspergillus
niger (Duhan et al., 2017).
Spraying nanosilica has a positive influence on the feeding
preference of Spodoptera littoralis on tomato plants
thereby enhancing the resistance levels of plants (Gul et
al., 2014). The spray affects the reproduction potential of
insect females thereby promoting insect population density
reductions (Gul et al., 2014). The effect of nano-glycerin
has also been shown to be superior to that of normal
glycerol in controlling pests over a short period of time in
numerous crops (Fawzy et al., 2018). Nanoherbicides are
currently being developed to offer a significant remedy to
the problems in the management of perennial weeds and
weed seed banks (Joshi et al., 2019). An example of a
commercialized herbicide product developed through
nanotechnology is Karate® ZEON which is a quick-release
microencapsulated product composed of an active
ingredient called lambda-cyhalothrin (Agrawal and
Rathore, 2014).
Nanomaterials can be used in identifying pest and disease
infestation in plants even before farmer identification
(Chakraborty et al., 2015). Nano-based virus diagnostics
such as the multiplexed diagnostic kit can detect exact
strains of a virus and other pathogens (Joshi et al., 2019).
The use of nanosensors which can detect pathogen levels
as low as parts-per-billion (Joshi et al., 2019) has improved
the efficiency of plant-disease detection experiments.
Specifically, silver nanoparticles have recently been used
effectively for detecting phytopathogens on seed and soil
surfaces (Joshi et al., 2019). This timely detection and
identification of phytopathogens is of greater importance in
the control of plant diseases.
Agronomy and Environmental Sensitivity
Nanotechnology is also opening new avenues with a
greater potential for enhancing agricultural productivity
and promoting environmental sensitivity. Several research
studies have presented the possibility of employing
nanotechnologies in hydroponics production systems of
vegetables and fruits (Ali et al., 2018). Hydroponics is a
production system which encompasses the cultivation of
plants in a soil-less media composed of nutrient-water
solutions. The applications of nanoparticles in nutrient
delivery, pest and disease control shape-up success and
enhances the efficiency of a hydroponics system.
Researchers have also carried experiments on increasing
seed germination through imbibing seeds in nano-
encapsulations containing specific bacterial strains of
Pseudomonas spp (Joshi et al., 2019). The experiments
led to the development of Smart Seed varieties which are
programmed to detect when the right conditions are
available for germination (Joshi et al., 2019). Furthermore,
the application of titanium dioxide (TiO2) on major food
crops has been shown to promote plant growth, minimize
disease severity and increase yield by a 30% margin
(Agrawal and Rathore, 2014). Recent studies have begun
exploring the utilization of nanoparticles in photosynthesis
as synthetic probes in augmenting how plants use light
(Swift et al., 2019).
Nanomaterials are also being used extensively in
agricultural waste recycling initiatives across the globe.
The Central Research Institute of Cotton in India
developed a technology for the production of nano-
cellulose from agricultural residues. Scaling-up recycling
initiatives should be on the frontline in the fight against
environmental degradation and pollution. Nanotechnology
is also promoting environmental remediation through the
use of magnetic nanoparticles and nanofibers. Magnetic
nanoparticles facilitate the removal of soil contaminants
such as Hg, Zn and Pb (Joshi et al., 2019). Nanofibers are
utilized in encapsulating chemical pesticides, for
preventing the scattering of chemical components in the
environment and ultimately reduce water and soil pollution
(Mousavi and Rezaei, 2011). Moreover, nano-filtration and
nano-particles are being utilized in providing a high
possibility of refining and eliminating microbial
contaminants in water with great speed and accuracy
(Mousavi and Rezaei, 2011).
Genetic Manipulation of Crops
Nano-biotechnology provide a set of tools and
technological platforms for improving agricultural
productivity through genetic modification of plants and
transportation of gene and drug molecules to specific
locations at a cellular level (Ali et al., 2018). The
incorporation of nanogenomics-based methods in plant
breeding has enhanced precision in trait selection and
gene transfer, and reduced the overall breeding time
requirements (Abd-Elsalam and Alghuthaymi, 2014).
Nanosensors have also been used in reducing the levels
of pollen contamination on wind-pollinated plant species
(Agrawal and Rathore, 2014). Nanogenetic manipulation
through the use of nanoparticles, nanocapsules and
nanofibers (Agrawal and Rathore, 2014) is providing a
sustainable approach to crop improvement initiatives.
Nanotechnology in plant breeding, is being utilized for
plant DNA transfer in breeding for insect-pest resistance
6. Nanotechnology Applications in Crop Production and Food Systems
Ndlovu et al. 629
schemes (Duhan et al., 2017). Nanoparticles provide a
source of protection to the DNA from enzymatic attack
during its transfer into and within plant cells (Joldersma
and Liu, 2018). Experiments exhibited that the plasmid
DNA can be successfully transferred using the gene gun
method with gold-capped nanoparticles in maize and
tobacco tissues (Agrawal and Rathore, 2014).
Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs)/DNA complexes
have been shown to have enhanced transfection efficiency
(Mustafa and Zaied, 2019). Furthermore, MSNs can be
used in delivering foreign genetic material (transformation)
and in carrying effectors (estradiol) which induces gene
expression (Mustafa and Zaied, 2019). Additionally,
nanobarcodes are utilized as identification tags in the
multiplexed analysis of gene expression for environmental
stress resistance (Duhan et al., 2017). Nanobarcode
particles are developed through semi-automated
electroplating of inert metals (e.g., gold and silver) (Duhan
et al., 2017).
Application of Nanotechnology in Food Industries
The application of nanotechnology in agro-food systems
possess tremendous benefits to the society (Meetoo,
2011). Singh et al. (2017) asserted that, the applications
of nanotechnologies in food industry encompasses two
main facets namely; food nanostructured ingredients (i.e.
food processing, nutrient enhancement, and packaging)
and food nanosensing (i.e. pathogen and freshness
detection). The application of nanotechnology in food
systems include nanosensors, nano based-food additives,
nanocapsules, nanopackaging and nanobased smart
delivery systems (Rashidi and Khosravi-Darani, 2011).
Nanotechnology enables researchers to manipulate the
existing food industry in ensuring product safety thereby
creating a culture of healthy and nutritional food
consumption (Rashidi and Khosravi-Darani, 2011).
Food Packaging
Oxygen is one of the major problematic factors in food
packaging, since it can promote or facilitate spoilage and
discoloration of food products (Joshi et al., 2019; Mousavi
and Rezaei, 2011). The inherent impermeability of
polymers to gases render polymer silicate nano-
composites more ideal substitutes for packaging (Rashidi
and Khosravi-Darani, 2011). Nanoparticles have been
used to develop a new plastic-type that prevents the
penetration of oxygen (Joshi et al., 2019). These plastics
contain nanoparticles arranged in a zigzag film (Fig 4)
which prohibits the penetration of oxygen (Mousavi and
Rezaei, 2011). This approach provides a smart food
packaging alternative for shelf-life optimization and
reduction of losses arising from spoilages. The technology
is also offering cost-effective methodologies for storage
and distribution of agricultural products (Rashidi and
Khosravi-Darani, 2011). Moreover, the utilization of
nanoparticles in these plastics enhances the heat
resistance and mechanical properties in food packaging
thereby increasing the shelf life through its gas or water
vapor permeability influences (Rashidi and Khosravi-
Darani, 2011).
Fig 4: The effect of nano-plates in packaging material.
Source: Wyser et al. (2016)
The first nano-composite was produced by interacting an
organic substance such as a protein, lipid or peptide with
an inorganic substance (for instance calcium carbonate)
and form a toughened material (Rashidi and Khosravi-
Darani, 2011). Nanoclay is widely used for the packaging
of food due to its thermal and mechanical barrier
properties, and cost-effectiveness (He et al., 2019).
Research has shown that, the addition of montmorillonite
(3-5%) into the production of nano-composites make
plastics lighter and stronger with increased thermal
stability (Rashidi and Khosravi-Darani, 2011). It also
increases barrier properties against carbon dioxide (CO2),
oxygen (O2), moisture, and volatiles (Rashidi and
Khosravi-Darani, 2011). Bayer Polymers Company has
developed and commercialized the Durethan (KU2-2601)
packaging film which prevents drying and protects against
oxygen and moisture build-up in food products (Pradhan
et al., 2017).
Food Processing and Safety
Nanotechnology enables food and beverage industries to
alter and manipulate their products for more effective
nutrient delivery so as to specifically target the
enhancement of nutritional and health statuses of
consumers (Handford et al., 2014). Bajpai et al. (2018)
highlighted that, Nanotechnology enhances the
functionality of food either by increasing nano-sized
nutritional supplements or by the elimination of chemical
toxicants. However, some food products are known to
naturally contain nanomaterials. For instance, the natural
nano-selenium content in green tea has numerous health
benefits (Bajpai et al., 2018). On the other hand,
nanomaterials can be developed to act as colour or flavour
additives, preservatives, or food supplement carriers (i.e.
nanoemulsion and nanoencapsulation) (He et al., 2019).
Nanomaterials are also used for the edible coating to
protect against cosmetic, nutritional quality and post-
harvest losses (He et al., 2019). Nanolaminates are
employed in the preparation of edible films and coatings
for the food industry including vegetables, fruits, meats,
7. Nanotechnology Applications in Crop Production and Food Systems
Int. J. Plant Breed. Crop Sci. 630
candies, chocolate, bakery products, and French fries
(Rashidi and Khosravi-Darani, 2011). Nanolaminates
consist of two or more physically or chemically bonded
nanomaterials layers are also utilized in the food industry
(Rashidi and Khosravi-Darani, 2011).
Some signs depicted on frozen food products to give the
consumer an insight on the freshness level of the product
are developed using nanotechnology. In frozen poultry,
three signs are used namely green (fresh product and safe
for consumption), orange (safe for consumption) and red
(not safe for consumption) (Fawzy et al., 2018). Suresh
Neethirajan (University of Manitoba, Winnipeg) developed
sensors for early detection of storage grain spoilage using
microelectronics and nanotechnology (Mousavi and
Rezaei, 2011). Nanosensors used in plastic packaging
detects gases produced during food spoilage allowing the
packaging material to change its color as an alert to the
consumer (Pal, 2017). Nanotechnology has also seen the
development of sensors that can detect Escherichia coli
contamination in food packages (Pal, 2017). Nanosensors
are also utilized in the detection of gases, toxins (including
pesticide residues) or pathogens in packaged foods
(Rashidi and Khosravi-Darani, 2011). Additionally,
nanomaterials have been documented to increase the
shelf-life of fruits. Nano-kutuzan is sprayed on strawberries
to increase the shelf-life by 20-28 days without mold
development (Fawzy et al., 2018).
Nano-encapsulated active ingredients such as vitamins
and fatty acids are presently being sold commercially for
utilization in processing and preservation of meats,
cheese, beverages and other foods (Miller and Senjen,
2008). Silver nanomaterials have also been reported to
have antimicrobial properties in the food production and
processing systems (Joshi et al., 2019). Nanotechnology
may be utilized for rapid identification of nutrient
deficiencies and food pathogen levels (Rashidi and
Khosravi-Darani, 2011). Oxonica Inc (a United States of
America registered company) developed nano-barcodes
visible only with a microscope as an anti-counterfeiting
measure on their products (Alfadul and Elneshwy, 2010).
This initiative provides a reliable approach in ensuring
consumer awareness on company products and also acts
as a safety and control measure against counterfeiting.
FUTURE OUTLOOK: NANOTECHNOLOGY ADOPTION
Opportunities and Potential of Nanotechnologies
Nanotechnology has a great potential in revolutionizing the
21st agricultural (Joseph and Morrison, 2006) and food
industries (Hosseini et al., 2010; Spandana, 2016). The
transformative potential of nanotechnology may be
heightened further through increased media coverage
alongside other scientific technologies such as
biotechnology, physics, and chemistry (Rashidi and
Khosravi-Darani, 2011). The beneficial sides of consuming
food products derived from nanotechnology need to be
fully explained to the ultimate consumers or beneficiaries
(Meetoo, 2011). Awareness of the benefits of such
products will increase their global adoption rates and
market shares. The absence of established special
regulations on nanotechnology utilization in food
production and processing (Rashidi and Khosravi-Darani,
2011) is a limiting factor to its acceptability by the general
populace. In the United States of America, the Food and
Drug Administration (FDA) traditionally regulates many
products composed of particulate materials (Rashidi and
Khosravi-Darani, 2011). However, at the present moment
no policy frameworks and enforcing institutions have been
established to oversee the production and marketing of
nanotechnologies. The establishment of a specific
regulation framework on nanotechnology will boost its
consumer adoption levels. Dimitrijevic et al. (2015) alluded
that, the implementation of a regulatory framework and
good governance will further promote the acceptability and
functionality of nanotechnology.
Fig 5: Opportunity Identification in Agro-food Industry. Source: Handford et al. (2014)
8. Nanotechnology Applications in Crop Production and Food Systems
Ndlovu et al. 631
Roco et al. (2011) underscored that, nanotechnology-
enabled products are impacting the overall marketplace
landscape as exhibited by its estimated economic value of
$254 billion worldwide. It is, therefore, rightly placed to
positively impact the agricultural industry through
enhanced business resource possibilities in the next
decade (Sabourin and Ayande, 2015). Nanotechnology is
participating in enhancing food security (Muller et al.,
2017), nutrient absorption by plants, pathogen detection,
flavour and nutrition (Rashidi and Khosravi-Darani, 2011).
Researchers in Iran achieved a remarkable milestone
fostering environmental sustainability by developing a
nano-organic iron-chelated fertilizer (Sekhon, 2014). It
also has future potential applications which include
nanodelivery of veterinary products in fish food,
antibacterial surfaces fish food and nanosensors for water
pathogens detection (Sabourin and Ayande, 2015).
Risks Associated with Nanotechnology Adoption
The increased application and utilization of
nanotechnology in agriculture and food systems over the
course of the past decades has attracted public attention
and generated elevating concerns (He et al., 2019). The
general public continues to raise questions pertaining to
the safety of such technologies on their well-being and that
of the environment. Environmental health concerns arising
are directly hinged on the interaction of nanoparticles used
as nano-pesticides, nanoherbicides, nanofertilizer, and the
immobilized nanosensors (He et al., 2019). The potential
risks associated with direct exposure to nanoparticles are
not well established and fully understood (Berekaa, 2015;
Meetoo, 2011). The elevating concerns regarding their
fate, bioavailability, transport, and nanomaterials limits the
inclination to adopt and accept such technologies (Mishra
et al., 2017). The environmental fate and behavior of
nanomaterials are largely dependent on their
physicochemical properties (He et al., 2019). Predicting
the behavior and fate of these nanomaterials is limited by
the complexity and dynamism of environmental conditions
(He et al., 2019). Researchers are therefore presented
with a mammoth task of providing clarity on the subject
matter.
Fig 6: Benefits Vs Potential Risks of Adopting Nanotechnology. Source: Handford et al. (2014)
9. Nanotechnology Applications in Crop Production and Food Systems
Int. J. Plant Breed. Crop Sci. 632
A wide research gap exists on the potential health risks
associated with the consumption of food products
containing nanoparticles (Meetoo, 2011). Handford et al.
(2014) outlined potential risks associated with nano-food
consumption in a schematic illustration shown in Fig 6. It
is therefore imperative to establish research schemes
targeting the toxicity and health risks associated with the
consumption of nanofoods. Toxicity studies on the effects
of nanoparticles on the environment and health safety can
significantly influence consumer acceptability levels
(Ziarati et al., 2018). Furthermore, the continued
development of new research protocols and the
implementation of different analytical techniques (for
instance microscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, and
magnetic resonance imaging) can considerably contribute
to understanding the plant-nanomaterial interactions
(Fraceto et al., 2016). Future studies should, therefore,
focus on filling the research gap on the toxicity of
nanomaterial (to mammal cells, tissues or organs) and the
migration of nanoparticles to food; environmental or
degradation fate; nanomaterials bioaccumulation and their
impact on ecosystems (He et al., 2019). Moreover,
developers should collaborate with regulators, risk
assessors and researchers in all processes of product
development to ensure safety procedures are observed
(Dimitrijevic et al., 2015).
CONCLUSION
The application of nanotechnology in agriculture and food
systems can contribute immensely to livelihood
sustainability and food security. The major contribution of
nanotechnology in agriculture is realized in nutrient
management, precision farming, insect pest and disease
management, agronomy and crop improvement schemes.
Interestingly, nanotechnology is utilized across the whole
operating systems of the food industry. However, at the
present moment, development and advancement of
nanotechnologies are mainly focusing on its beneficial
effects with little attention being placed on nano-toxicology
(Ziarati et al., 2018). Furthermore, no regulatory standards
have been established to govern the use of nanomaterials.
This is currently acting as a barrier to the outright adoption
and acceptance of nanotechnology by the general public.
Conclusively, the establishment of a regulatory framework
encompassing; particle size, measurement, and range,
physicochemical and processing property specifications,
safety and risks can help in bridging the knowledge gap
and bringing closure to the consumers.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The authors wish to record their gratitude to the reviewers
and the editorial team of this journal for improving the
quality of this paper.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST
The authors of this article declare no conflict of interest.
AUTHOR’S CONTRIBUTIONS
Authors conceived the study and equally participated in
designing and drafting of the manuscript. The authors
proof-read and approved the final draft of the manuscript.
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