Biogenic Synthesis Of Zinc Nanoparticles With Indigenous Penicillium Citrinum Iba5vyt And Their Effectiveness Against Cotton Leafworm

Abstract

This research explored the preliminary insecticidal potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) synthesized through a green chemistry approach against Spodoptera litura, a major pest of soybean crops. Among four Penicillium isolates tested, P3, P6, P14, and P17, Penicillium citrinum IBA5VYT (P17) demonstrated the highest efficacy, achieving mortality rates of 83.34% and 96%. Subsequently, ZnO NPs were biosynthesized using P17, and their properties were characterized via X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and UV spectroscopy. The effectiveness of these ZnO NPs was evaluated at concentrations of 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 ppm against third and fourth instar larvae of S. litura. Notably, complete mortality was observed at 300 ppm and 500 ppm concentrations respectively. The study calculated the LC50 and LT50 values for both Penicillium citrinum IBA5VYT and the biogenic ZnO NPs for the larvae. Results indicated that biogenic ZnO NPs exhibit significant pest control efficacy at relatively low concentrations, with improved performance at higher doses. These findings emphasize the potential of biosynthesized ZnO NPs as a viable, eco-friendly alternative to conventional chemical pesticides.