Etude de l’effet biostimulant sur la tomate (Lycopersicum esculentum Mill.) et biofongicide vis-à-vis de Fusarium sp., des nanoparticules (ZnO).

Abstract

Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) is one of the most cultivated and consumed vegetables worldwide. It is particularly susceptible to fungal infections, notably by Fusarium oxysporum, responsible for significant losses in production and quality, both in the field and post-harvest. In this context, this study evaluated the biostimulant and antifungal potential of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles on industrial tomato variety Celia. In vitro tests were conducted on mycelial growth of Fusarium oxysporum, while in vivo trials were performed on tomato plants in nursery conditions, using different concentrations of ZnO nanoparticles applied through foliar application. In vitro results showed significant antifungal efficacy of ZnO nanoparticles against the tested pathogens. Under in vivo conditions, nanoparticles demonstrated a notable biostimulant effect on plant growth, with height improvement of 4 to 6% compared to the control, as well as modulation of vegetative and reproductive architecture. Concentration C1 proved optimal, stimulating flowering while maintaining balanced development. These results highlight the potential of ZnO nanoparticles as an innovative alternative to conventional growth stimulants, offering both biostimulant properties and natural protection against industrial tomato pathogens.