EVALUATING THE POTENCY OF NIGELLA SATIVA-MEDIATED SILVER NANOPARTICLES AGAINST AFLATOXIGENIC FUNGI IN PLANTING SOIL

Abstract

This study investigates the antifungal properties of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) biosynthesized using Nigella sativa (black seed) extract against aflatoxigenic fungal species isolated from soil samples. The synthesis of AgNPs was confirmed through UV-Vis spectroscopy, and their functional groups were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The antifungal activity of the AgNPs was assessed against several aflatoxigenic fungi, including Aspergillus neoniger, Aspergillus niger, terreus, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus parasiticus, and Aspergillus nidulans, employing the agar well diffusion method. Results demonstrated that the AgNPs exhibited significant inhibitory effects on the growth of all tested fungal strains, including both aflatoxigenic and non-aflatoxigenic species, with a pronounced fungicidal effect. In comparison, fungal isolates were also evaluated against conventional antifungal agents, showing varied inhibition zones. This study highlights the potential of black seed extract-mediated AgNPs as a promising, eco-friendly, and efficient alternative to traditional antifungal treatments.