PERTANIKA JOURNAL OF TROPICAL AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE

Nanotechnology has emerged as a transformative field across various industries, with agriculture being a key area of impact. Metal oxide nanoparticles (MONPs) are particularly valuable due to their versatile applications in enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability. However, the traditional chemical synthesis of MONPs has raised environmental concerns, prompting researchers to seek alternative methods. As a result, green synthesis of MONPs using eco-friendly methods and biological materials has become a popular and sustainable alternative for industrial and agricultural applications. Fungi are highly versatile microorganisms that have the ability to produce a diverse range of secondary metabolites that can be utilised as reducing agents for the production of MONPs. Despite this potential, there is a lack of comprehensive review articles that specifically examine the role of fungi from different genera as nanofactories for MONPs, along with their biological capabilities in promoting sustainable aquaculture practices. Therefore, this review seeks to bridge this gap by providing a comprehensive overview of fungal species capable of synthesising MONPs. In addition, this review highlights the recent advancements in mycogenic MONPs, with a focus on their potential applications, particularly in aquaculture.