Exploring the Synergy of Nanotechnology and Seed Science for Sustainable Crop Production: A Minireview
R Sindhu Lakshmi
Department of Seed Science and Technology, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai-625104, Tamil Nadu, India.
V Alex Albert *
Department of Seed Science and Technology, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai-625104, Tamil Nadu, India.
P Meenakshisundaram
Department of Biotechnology, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai-625104, Tamil Nadu, India.
K Sujatha
Department of Seed Science and Technology, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai-625104, Tamil Nadu, India.
M Gunasekaran
Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai-625104, Tamil Nadu, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Nanotechnology is the art and science of manipulating the matter at nano-scale. Nanotechnology is used in Seed Science for attaining sustainable crop production. There are various types of Nano particles used in seed science which includes carbon nanotubes, quantum dots, magnetic nanoparticles etc., Nano priming of seeds increases germination percentage, seedling growth, vigour and disease resistance. Nano bio-sensors are advanced sensors that integrate biological components with nanoscale materials to monitor, track, and improve various aspects of seed growth and health. Seeds are coated with nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes, polymers and biocides which improves water retention and nutrient uptake particularly in pulses like black gram and green gram. Emerging research domain includes nano-packaging of seeds, nano-bubble technology for seed invigoration. Hence, with proper knowledge about the pros and cons of Nano-technology, it can be successfully employed in Seed Science and Technology to achieve long-term agricultural productivity.
Keywords: Carbon nanotube, germination, nano-bubble, nano-priming, seed science