Revealing the Crucial Role and Prospect of Nano-biofertilizers for Improving Soil Health and Advancing Sustainable Crop Productivity

Abstract

Summary In recent years, the agriculture practices have seen a growing interest in innovative technologies aimed at enhancing productivity while promoting sustainability. Nano-biofertilizers, a novel approach to crop nutrition, have emerged as a potential game-changer. This study is aimed comprehensively to uncover the potential and current utilization status of nano-biofertilizers in soil health improvement and sustainable enhancement of crop productivity. The methodology used in this study involved the application of systematic literature review (SLR) methods in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The review focused on scientific literature published from 2013 to 2023, utilizing databases such as ScienceDirect, Scopus, and PubMed. A total of 631 articles were identified through this process. Out of this pool, 10 articles were chosen based on their relevance and topic and they underwent a comprehensive and detailed review. The results showed that use of nano-biofertilizers improves the soil health, plant growth, and productivity significantly. The biological selenium nanoparticles (100 mg/mL) significantly increased the length and weight of spike, root, and shoot, grain quantity in spike, and 1000 grain weight by 5%–40% compared to control. Comamonas testosteroni biofertilizer combined with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) could alleviate the salinity threatening plant growth. Nano-biofertilizers enhance plant growth, elevate their nutritional value, improve productivity, extend shelf life, and bolster their defenses against biotic and abiotic stress factors.