Toxicity of ZnO and Fe2O3 nano-agro-chemicals to soil microbial activities, nitrogen utilization, and associated human health risks

Abstract Background Various nano-enabled agrochemicals are being extensively used for soil remediation and to boost crop production by increasing the nutrient efficiency of fertilizers. However, understanding their potential risks on manure–soil–plant continuum is limited. These nano-agrochemicals can be potentially toxic microbes associated functions, such as nitrogen (N) mineralization decomposition organic materials. Moreover, accumulation nanoparticles (NPs) in edible crops may reduce food quality, cause serious threats human health. Accordingly, here we investigated how zinc (ZONPs) iron oxide (IONPs) affect microbial communities, N mineralization, radish yield, plant recovery after application poultry manure (PM). Furthermore, studied health (DIM, HRI) via dietary intake radish. Results Soil ZONPs IONPs significantly ( P < 0.05) increased biomass Zn/Fe indicating utilization. This decreased colony-forming units (CFU) bacteria fungi. For example, PM with CFU 32% 19%, respectively. In case fungi, reductions were slightly different (ZONPs: 28% IONPs: 23%). Consequently, 62% 29% due IONPs, Which ultimately resulted reduction dry matter yield 22% 12%. The respective apparent (ANR) 65% 39%. Health risk assessment indicated that DIM HRI values from both NPs lie under safe limits. Conclusions We conclude metal (i.e., IONPs) community, former relatively more toxic. no evidence was found regarding humans intake. toxicological effects imply restricting widespread use NPs, developing strategies disposal avoid contact beneficial microorganisms.