Potential nano strategies in insect pest management: synthesis, applications and plant interactions

Global crop production is significantly affected by biotic stress, typically managed with conventional chemical agents. However, these methods can have detrimental effects such as the development of resistance, pest resurgence, unwanted effects on human health and environment. Nanotechnology offers an alternative approach to crop pest management that can help alleviate these issues. It is a multidisciplinary strategy for plant protection that includes nano-based pesticide formulations and nano carrier based biopesticides. Nanoparticles have distinct physical and chemical characteristics due to their tiny size, measured in nanometers. Various nanoparticles, including polymeric, metal, metal oxides and silica nanoparticles have been synthesized and utilized to combat various insect pests and aid in pest control. Nano silica (SiO2) and other metal oxide nanoparticles like silver (Ag), copper (CuO), titanium (TiO2), zinc oxide (ZnO), gold (Au) and aluminum (Al2O3) have been found to be effective against stored pests and crop pests, as well. However, more studies are needed in the future to understand how these particles affect non-target species that coexist in the same habitat as the target species. While nanoparticles offer promising solutions for pest management, their potential risks such as toxicity to beneficial organisms, environmental persistence, regulatory challenges and high production costs must be addressed in the future by developing eco-friendly, biodegradable formulations and establishing regulatory frameworks to ensure their safe and sustainable application. This review explores the effectiveness of nanoparticles and nano-based formulations in managing insect pests and also outlines future research directions on the impact of nanoparticles on beneficial fauna.