Biosynthesis and characterization of selenium and silver nanoparticles using Trichoderma viride filtrate and their impact on Culex pipiens

Abstract

Abstract Some of the significant globally prevalent vector-borne illnesses are caused by Culex pipiens. Synthetic pesticides have been widely utilized to eradicate C. pipiens, which has led to a number of health risks for people, insect resistance, and environmental contamination. Alternative strategies are therefore vitally needed. In the current investigation, the Trichoderma viride fungal culture filtrate was used to create selenium and silver nanoparticles (SeNPs and AgNPs, respectively) and test them on C. pipiens larvae in their fourth instar stage. The death rate increased significantly when SeNP and AgNP concentrations increased, according to the results. SeNPs and AgNPs significantly affected the developmental and detoxification enzymes in fourth instar larvae of C. pipiens at 24 h after being treated with the sublethal concentration of the tested NPs. As a result of their insecticidal effect on C. pipiens larvae, SeNPs and AgNPs are considered effective and promising larvicidal agents.