Development and Evaluation of Zinc and Iron Nanoparticles Functionalized with Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) and Microalgae for Their Application as Bio-Nanofertilizers
2023
Carlos Esteban Guardiola-Márquez | Edgar R. López-Mena | M. Eugenia Segura-Jiménez | Isaac Gutierrez-Marmolejo | Manuel A. Flores-Matzumiya | Shirley Mora-Godínez | Carmen Hernández-Brenes | Daniel A. Jacobo-Velázquez
Micronutrient deficiencies are widespread and growing global concerns. Nanoscale nutrients present higher absorption rates and improved nutrient availability and nutrient use efficiency. Co-application of nanofertilizers (NFs) with biological agents or organic compounds increases NF biocompatibility, stability, and efficacy. This study aimed to develop and evaluate zinc and iron bio-nanofertilizers formulated with plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and microalgae. Nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized with the co-precipitation method and functionalized with <i>Pseudomonas</i> species and <i>Spirulina platensis</i> preparation. NPs were characterized and evaluated on seed germination, soil microbial growth, and early plant response under seedbed conditions. NPs corresponded to zinc oxide (ZnO; 77 nm) and maghemite (γ-Fe<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub>; 68 nm). Functionalized nanoparticles showed larger sizes, around 145–233 nm. The seedling vigor index of tomato and maize was significantly increased (32.9–46.1%) by bacteria-functionalized ZnO- and γ-Fe<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub>-NPs at 75 ppm. NFs at 250 and 75 ppm significantly increased bacterial growth. NFs also improved early plant growth by increasing plant height (14–44%), leaf diameter (22–47%), and fresh weight (46–119%) in broccoli and radish, which were mainly influenced by bacteria capped ZnO- and γ-Fe<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub>-NPs at 250 ppm. Beneficial effects on plant growth can be attributed to the synergistic interaction of the biological components and the zinc and iron NPs in the bio-nanofertilizers.
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