An Investigation into the Larvicidal Activity of Biologically Synthesized Silver and Copper Oxide Nanoparticles Against Mosquito Larvae

Abstract

AbstractThis study is primarily focused on the synthesis of silver and copper oxide nanoparticles utilizing the extract of Ipomoea staphylina plant and their larvicidal activity against specific larvae. Notably, Anopheles stephensi and Aedes aegypti are significant disease vectors responsible for transmitting diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, Zika virus, and chikungunya (Anopheles stephensi), and dengue and Zika (Aedes aegypti). These mosquitoes have a substantial impact on urban areas, influencing disease transmission dynamics. In an effort to control these larvae, we have pursued the synthesis of a herbal‐based nanomedicine derived from I. staphylina, a valuable herb in traditional medicine. Our successful synthesis of silver and CuO nanoparticles followed environmentally sustainable green chemistry methodologies. The I. staphylina plant extract played a dual role as a reducing agent and dopant, aligning with principles of sustainability. We employed X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis to validate the nanoparticle structure and size, while field‐emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM) revealed well‐defined nanostructures. Elemental composition was determined through energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX) analysis, and UV‐visible spectroscopy provided insights into the bandgap energy (3.15 eV for silver, 1.2 eV for CuO nanoparticles). These nanoparticles exhibited robust larvicidal activity, with CuO nanoparticles surpassing silver nanoparticles in terms of LC50 and LC90 values. Moreover, the developmental toxicity of CuO and Ag NPs was evaluated in zebrafish embryos as part of non‐target eco‐toxicological studies conducted in a standard laboratory environment. These findings underscore the potential utility of these nanoparticles as highly effective and environmentally friendly natural pesticides, offering cost‐effectiveness and ecological benefits.