Abstract:
Progress in nanotechnology and its implications have highlighted concerns about its application
in agriculture and possible release to the environment. Increasing concerns of nanotechnology
has opened many questions regarding type and dosage for respective crop under different soil
conditions. The recent work was done to evaluate the effect of Titania nanoparticles on
physiological growth parameters of rice (Oryza sativa L.) and to determine nutrient availability
under different soil textures. Greenhouse experiment was carried out with three soil textures
(sandy loam, silt loam and silty clay loam) in a randomized comprehensive block scheme with
five replicates. Two different concentrations of titanium dioxide nanoparticles i.e. 500, 750 mg
kg-1 of soil were used and a control without nanoparticles was maintained. Growth parameters
including chlorophyll content, root/shoot length, fresh/dry biomass and nutrients (P, N, K, Fe,
Mg, Cu, Ca, Zn and Al) uptake were determined. The results revealed that root growth was
promoted under sandy loam texture while root proliferation was inhibited in silty clay loam
due to its compaction properties. Average shoot length was higher in silty clay loam followed
by silt loam and sandy loam. Moreover, application of titania doses affected shoot length
significantly in all textures. Fresh and dry biomass yield showed significant difference among
different textures. However nanoparticles’ application at different rates increased fresh and dry
biomass yield in different soil conditions. The most appropriate dose of titania nanoparticle
came out to be 500 mg kg-1 at which plant growth was promoted. Uptake of phosphorus was
promoted at 500 mg kg-1 treatment. Other nutrient showed random results regarding different
textures and doses. Uptake of Ca (41.1 mg kg-1) was better in silty clay loam as compared to
other soil textures (p< 0.05).
