Enhancing of faba bean ( Vicia faba L.) plant s physiological tolerance against Rhizoctonia solani damping-off diseases by application of silver nanoparticle and tebuconazole fungicide

The researchers in Egypt have significant difficulty in controlling the development of damping-off disease caused by Rhizoctonia solani in the faba bean plant ( Vicia faba L, VF). This is due to the importance of faba beans as a staple food source. Fungicides are used to control either seeds or soil; regrettably, they pollute the ecosystem. As a result, further study is required to identify safe and cost-effective alternatives. In this context, silver nano- particles were utilized as an inhibitory agent against Rhizoctonia solani and compared to the commercial fungicide Hattric 6 % FS (tebuconazole). The minimal inhibitory and fungicidal values for Ag-NPs were 50 and 100 ppm, respectively. Furthermore, Ag-NPs reduced R. solani damping-off intensity. Similarly, Ag-NPs dramatically enhance phenotypic (Shoot length, root length and number of leaves), physiological indicators (soluble sugars, soluble protein and proline), stress markers (Malondialdehyde (MDA), Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)), protein pattern when compared to infected controls and the chemical fungicide tebuconazole. In conclusion, biosynthesized Ag-NPs are a potentially efficient treatment against R. solani damping-off diseases in Vicia faba, along with a plant growth promoter.