Effect of Nanoparticle Metal Solutions on Chufa (Cyperus Esculentus L.) Root and Seedling Growth

Abstract

Nanoparticles of trace elements are easily included in the metabolic cycles of plants. Zinc and molybdenum are important components of enzymes, but even at low concentrations can have phytotoxic effects. Treatment of chufa tubers with microelements increases the viability of tubers, but at certain concentrations of nanoparticles can negatively affect the growth processes at the germination and early vegetative stages. Effect of treatment of tubers with nanoparticle solution of molybdenum, zinc oxide and zinc citrate at a concentration of 20, 40 and 60 ppm on the growth of roots and seedlings was established on 3 rd and 10 th days after emergence. The positive effect of all treatments at a concentration of 20 ppm was found, but higher concentrations caused different effects on root growth. Zinc citrate and molybdenum nanoparticle solution at a concentration of 60 ppm adversely affect the weight of the root, leaves and root length. Pre-sowing treatment with zinc citrate is indirectly more effective than zinc oxide nanoparticles against root growth at concentrations of 20 and 40 ppm but inhibits it at 60 ppm. Treatments with zinc oxide nanoparticles are more stable regardless of concentration. Short-term effects on root growth processes indicate the prospects of increasing drought resistance and other mechanisms of physiological adaptation.