ABSTRACT
Biotic stresses induced by insect pests, plant diseases and phytonematodes are major constraints in enhancing food and nutritional security. Therefore, their management is of paramount importance. Traditional pest and disease management strategies have primarily focused on utilizing local resources and bioagents and largely on deploying chemicals. Henceforth, the quest for a safe, ecofriendly and effective novel management approach is on. The development of nanotechnology has offered hope for pest and disease reduction in several ways. A wide range of nano-formulations (nano-granules, gel, fiber, clay, capsules) based on silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), Cu composites (CuO NPs), ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO NPs), chitosan nanoparticles, titanium dioxide (TiO2 NPs), have been synthesized and formulated for use in crop protection. Nanotechnology offers a wonderful tool for the development of novel formulations of eco-friendly insecticides. Most nano-insecticide formulations are highly target-specific, due to their targeted delivery and controlled release, which can improve insecticide utilization and reduce residue and pollution. The progress of recent research in the role of nanoparticles in the management of insect pests and diseases and nematodes is outlined in this chapter.
