Nanotechnology in crop protection: Status and scope

Pests, including insects, mites, nematodes and pathogens, are the major limiting factor in profitable crop production. Frequent application of pesticides has resulted in development of pest and disease resistance, accumulating residues in produce and environmental pollution. So there is a need for alternative approach as to control pests and pathogens. Application of nanotechnology in crop protection holds a significant promise in management of insects and pathogens, by controlled and targeted delivery of agrochemicals and also by providing diagnostic tools for early detection. Nanoparticles are highly s table and are biodegradable; it can be successfully employed in production of nanocapsules for delivery of pesticides, fertilizers, and other agrochemicals. Nanoparticles display slow release of encapsulated functional molecules and reduce its frequent applications. Nanoparticles are smaller in size with more charge and larger surface area with higher stability and solubility, so behave differently from their bulk sized counterparts. The biological agents such as plants and microbes have emerged as cost effective and efficient candidates for the synthesis of nanoparticles by green synthesis approaches. They have advantages over conventional chemical methods which associated with eco toxicity. This review is focused on potential applications of nanomaterials in crop protection for a cleaner and greener agriculture.