Marine-Derived Silver Nanoparticles for Aquaculture: A Systematic Evaluation of Synthesis–Performance Relationships and Nanotoxicological Implications

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized via marine organisms have attracted growing attention as sustainable alternatives to conventional chemical and physical production methods, particularly for applications in aquaculture. Despite rapid advances in this field, existing research remains fragmented, with limited quantitative integration of synthesis parameters, nanoparticle physicochemical characteristics, and reported application outcomes. To address this gap, we conducted a systematic, literature-based data compilation and comparative analysis of published studies focusing on marine organism-mediated AgNP synthesis and aquaculture-related applications.

Peer-reviewed articles were systematically screened, and quantitative data were extracted to evaluate precursor concentration, biological source (including algae, bacteria, fungi, and cyanobacteria), synthesis conditions (pH, temperature, and reaction time), nanoparticle size distribution, morphology, characterization techniques, and reported functional performance. Comparative statistical analysis revealed distinct trends linking organism type to nanoparticle properties and application efficiency. Algae- and bacteria-mediated synthesis routes consistently yielded smaller, more uniform AgNPs, whereas fungal systems demonstrated enhanced capping efficiency and nanoparticle stability. Application-focused data showed substantial antimicrobial efficacy against aquaculture pathogens and promising antifouling performance. However, inconsistencies in ecotoxicological testing methods and reporting metrics highlight the urgent need for standardized evaluation frameworks.

By integrating synthesis parameters, structural characterization, functional outcomes, and sustainability considerations into a unified analytical framework, this review provides a structured understanding of current progress and limitations. Furthermore, it identifies critical methodological gaps, reporting inconsistencies, and scalability challenges, offering a roadmap for standardized experimental design, controlled nanoformulation development, and environmentally responsible deployment of marine-derived AgNPs within sustainable aquaculture systems.