GREEN SYNTHESIS OF SILVER NANOPARTICLES BY FILAMENTOUS MICROORGANISMS (Fungi and Actinomycetes) ISOLATED FROM CAATINGA AND EVALUATION OF BIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES APPLIED TO AGRICULTURAL FARMING
Keywords: Green synthesis, silver nanoparticles, Streptomyces, filamentous fungi.
The growing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly methods in the synthesis of nanoparticles has driven biotechnology research. This study addresses the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using filamentous microorganisms isolated from the Caatinga region, such as fungi and actinomycetes. With the exception of isolated fungi, filamentous microorganisms of the genus Streptomyces demonstrated effectiveness in the synthesis of AgNPs, as confirmed by spectroscopic and microscopic analyses. Surface plasmon resonance analysis, with consequent change in the UV-vis optical absorption band, showed peaks in the region at length 410-420nm. The zeta potential showed the AgNPs containing a single peak in the range of -6.46 mV to -26.9 mV. The nanoparticles presented adequate physical and structural characteristics, highlighting their potential application in different sectors. In the evaluation of biological properties, AgNPs demonstrated antimicrobial activity against agricultural pathogens and infectious agents common in livestock. Excellent results were observed when tested against the Nasutitermes corniger termite and, especially when associated with the aqueous extract of Cassia grandis, a plant widely found in the Sertão of Pernambuco. The green synthesis of silver nanoparticles by filamentous microorganisms isolated from the Caatinga offers an eco-friendly and efficient approach. The synthesized AgNPs exhibited promising termitecidal properties, suggesting their potential application in agriculture for the control and promotion of soil and vegetation health. This study highlights the importance of regional biodiversity in the search for innovative solutions to agricultural challenges, promoting sustainability and preservation of the local ecosystem.