Evaluation of the Effects of Nanomaterials on Rice (<i>Oryza sativa</i> L.) Responses: Underlining the Benefits of Nanotechnology for Agricultural Applications

Abstract

The application of nanotechnology in the field of agriculture as nanofertilizers or nanopesticides is receiving increased attention from regulatory agencies and research institutions worldwide. Soil and bodies of water are among the most massive sinks for commercial products containing engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) after use. This may affect agricultural ecosystems, mainly those with a high demand for irrigation water supply such as rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivars. This review describes the responses of different rice cultivars exposed to ENPs at different growth stages and under different conditions. Data on seed germination, uptake and translocation of ENPs, biomass production, nutrient profiles, and photosynthesis-related parameters are discussed. Critical knowledge gaps concerning the potential use of nanotechnology to improve agricultural production are highlighted.