Effect of Fungal Based Silver Nanoparticles on Growth Parameters and Biochemicals Traits of Sunflower

The current study explores the effects of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized via Aspergillus spp. on the growth and biochemical characteristics of sunflower seedlings. Three concentrations of fungal-mediated AgNPs—1mM, 2mM, and 3mM—were applied to assess their impact on seedling growth parameters and phytochemical composition. The results showed that AgNPs significantly enhanced seedling growth, with noticeable increases in shoot and root length, as well as fresh and dry shoot weight, compared to the control. However, no significant changes were observed in root fresh and dry weights (p > 0.05). Phytochemical analysis revealed that AgNPs enhanced various biochemical traits, including carbohydrates, proteins, indole acetic acid, flavonoids, carotenoids, chlorophyll a, and chlorophyll b, whereas phenolic content remained unaffected (p > 0.05). These results suggest that fungal-mediated AgNPs can promote seedling growth and improve biochemical attributes, demonstrating their potential for agricultural applications aimed at boosting crop productivity and quality. The study highlights the environmental benefits of using fungi for nanoparticle synthesis, in contrast to traditional chemical methods.