Seed priming with nanoparticles enhances the physio-biochemical traits of <i>Oryza sativa</i> and reduces aflatoxins production

Climate change affects all cereal crops, especially rice, and activates a chain reaction of stressors that can lead to global food shortages. In the northeastern parts of India, small and marginal farmers rely on crops such as rice for both sustenance and income generation. The present investigation was undertaken to assess the performance of rice seeds after seed treatment with nanoparticles. Seeds of ‘PR126’ were treated with oxides of silicon, zinc and titanium nanoparticles at 100, 250, 500 and 750 ppm; there were two controls, dry untreated seeds and hydroprimed seeds. Using standardised techniques, several aspects of seed quality, including germination and vigour were assessed. The low prevalence of seed-borne pathogens in nano-primed seeds compared to unprimed seeds suggested that seed treatments can have a major role in reducing seed-borne pathogens. The ELISA test revealed that primed seeds exhibited lower production of aflatoxin than unprimed seeds. The enhanced results for nanoparticle-mediated seed treatments will add a new dimension to seed priming and contribute to reducing aflatoxins production.