Smart delivery of nanofiber matrix encapsulated botanical nematicide α-terthienyl against root knot nematode on tomato

Alpha-terthienyl (α-T), a volatile phytochemical from marigold ( Tagetes spp. ) roots, is recognized for its nematicidal properties, primarily by inducing oxidative stress and protein deformation in nematodes. However, due to the rapid degradation of α-T, an innovative delivery system is necessary to maintain its efficacy over time. This study developed α-T-loaded nanofibers using electrospinning as a novel, sustained-release system to manage Meloidogyne incognita in tomato plants. Characterization of α-T infused nanofiber matrix through UV-VIS spectroscopy revealed a maximum absorption peak at 350 nm, while FTIR confirmed the presence of α-T functional groups, validating its encapsulation. SEM analysis showed that the diameter of unloaded control nanofibers ranged from 130.3 nm to 166.1 nm, whereas α-T-loaded nanofibers exhibited a significantly larger diameter of 777.6 nm, further providing strong evidence for successful encapsulation within the nanofiber matrix. Application of the α-T nanofiber formulation at 8 ppm significantly reduced M. incognita populations and improved plant growth parameters in tomato plants, demonstrating its potential as a sustainable solution for nematode management in agriculture. • α-T-infused nanofibers effectively reduced Meloidogyne incognita populations. • Nanofiber encapsulation enhanced α-T stability, enabling controlled release. • 8 ppm α-T concentration promoted plant growth and reduced nematode-induced damage.