Nanoparticles boost pomegranate growth and defense, suppressing root-knot nematodes

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Nematology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) pose a significant threat to pomegranate (Punica granatum) cultivation worldwide.
• Chemical nematicides are widely used but raise environmental and health concerns.
• Nanoparticles (NPs) offer a potential eco-friendly alternative for nematode management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of copper oxide (CuO) and iron oxide (Fe2O3) NPs against Meloidogyne javanica in pomegranate.
• To assess the impact of CuO and Fe2O3 NPs on pomegranate growth and biochemical parameters.
• To explore NPs as a sustainable solution for nematode control in pomegranate.

Main Methods:

• One-year-old pomegranate seedlings (cv. Hegazy) were infected with Meloidogyne javanica.
• Treatments involved drenching and spraying with 50 mg/L CuO and Fe2O3 NPs.
• Evaluated nematode parameters (egg masses, galls, juveniles) and plant growth and biochemical traits.

Main Results:

• CuO and Fe2O3 NPs significantly reduced nematode egg masses, galls, and soil juveniles.
• NP treatments enhanced pomegranate growth, including increased side branching and leaf area.
• Photosynthetic pigments, antioxidants, thiol compounds (GSH, NPTs, PTs), and flavonoids increased, while stress markers (MDA, proline) decreased.

Conclusions:

• Copper oxide and iron oxide nanoparticles are effective in managing Meloidogyne javanica in pomegranate.
• NPs promote pomegranate growth and resilience by improving biochemical defenses.
• Nanoparticles represent a viable and sustainable alternative to chemical nematicides for pomegranate cultivation.