Application of MnS nanoparticles in field conditions elevates morpho-physio-biochemical characteristics and oil content in Eruca sativa L. (Arugula)
摘要
Manganese based nanoparticles have potential to revolutionize agricultural practices for enhanced nutrient uptake, growth, and yield. In present study, the effect of manganese sulfide (MnS) nanoparticles (NPs) was evaluated on Eruca sativa grown under field condition. Spherical crystals of 8 nm MnS NPs applied at 8 kg/ha through broadcasting method markedly increased agronomic parameters i.e., root length up to 23.52%, shoot length 9.91%, branches plant− 1 42.85%, dry weight plant− 1 44.14%, fruit count 52.98%, seed fruit− 1 4.98%, and seed oil content 15.04%. Atomic absorption spectroscopy revealed a preferential accumulation of Mn in plant tissues, with the highest concentration in roots (61.2 mg/kg DW), followed by shoots (42.06 mg/kg DW), and seeds (19.46 mg/kg DW). Biochemical analysis showed a substantial improvement in protein content (174.2%), superoxide dismutase (96.07%) and peroxidase (125.39%) activities. The root and shoot of E. sativa plant treated with MnS NPs displayed enhanced total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, DPPH free radical scavenging activity, total reducing power, and total antioxidant capacity as compared to control. FT-IR, GC-MS, and NMR analysis of oil indicated that MnS NPs increased oil yield but fatty acid profile and oil quality remained unchanged. These outcomes of this study highlight the potential of MnS NPs as sustainable agro-inputs that can improve plant performance and biochemical profiles without compromising the nutritional quality of oil.