Nanoinert diatomaceous and emamectin benzoate: Enhancing wheat protection against fall armyworms for sustainable management.

The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda , poses a significant global threat to agriculture due to its wide geographic range, high reproductive rate, and ability to thrive in diverse climates and habitats. A field study was conducted to evaluate the potential of nano-inert dust particles, specifically nano-diatomaceous earth (N-DE) and nano-potassium silicate (N-K 2 SiO 3), individually and in combination with emamectin benzoate, to manage FAW larvae infesting wheat plants (Triticum aestivum L.). The field experiments occurred during the winter seasons of 2021 and 2022 in Qaha, Qalubya Governorate, Egypt. Results revealed that the combined application of N-DE and N-K 2 SiO 3 with emamectin benzoate outperformed other treatments, achieving larval reduction rates of 93.33 % and 86.66 % in 2021 and 89.31 % and 86.90 % in 2022 after a 10-day interval from the second spray. Moreover, supplementation with N-DE and N-K 2 SiO 3 enhanced plant height, tiller count, leaf number, foaming, suspensibility, surface tension, and pH compared to using emamectin benzoate alone. Additionally, foliar application of N-K 2 SiO 3 and N-DE increased total flavonoids (4.23 and 3.24 mg CE/g) and total phenolic compounds (1.35 and 1.12 mg/g F. Wt.), as well as plant silicate content, indicating improved plant health and pest resistance. This study underscores the efficacy of N-DE and N-K 2 SiO 3 in reducing FAW infestations and enhancing plant growth and defense mechanisms. [Display omitted] • FAW poses a significant threat to agriculture globally due to its wide geographic range, and reproductive rate. • A field study assessed the potential of nano-diatomaceous earth (N-DE) and nano-potassium silicate (N-K 2 SiO 3). • Combined application of N-DE and N-K 2 SiO 3 with emamectin benzoate give superior efficacy in larval reduction. • Supplementation of N-DE and N-K 2 SiO 3 showed positive effects on wheat plants, enhancing plant parameters. • Application of N-K 2 SiO 3 and N-DE led to increased levels of total flavonoids and phenolic compounds in wheat plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]