Effect of Mangifera indica extracted CuO NPs on seed germination of Cicer arietinum and Vigna radiata: an insight on biochemical, physiological and computational studies

Biosynthesized metal oxide nanoparticles are used as nano-fertilizers for sustainable agriculture as they have proven to be promising agents in increasing the germination rates and plant growth rate. Biosynthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) was done for the first-time using extract of Mangifera indica leaves. Effects of as-synthesized CuO NPs on the seed germination of two legume seeds are investigated at different concentrations (0 - 2.5 mg/ml). UV-Vis and EDX analysis confirm the formation of CuO NPs & FESEM images revealed spherical shape of NPs with particle size ranging from 105nm to 155nm. CuO-NPs also revealed to be highly stable in aqueous suspension with zeta potential value -21.1mV. Germination rate, root /shoot growth and protein estimated of Cicer arietinum and Vigna radiata seeds found to be highest at 2.5mg/ml and 1mg/ml concentration, respectively. Negative impact on germination rate and root/shoot growth was observed due to toxic effects when CuO-NPs were ap