Zirconium based Metal-Organic framework for emamectin benzoate Delivery: Enhanced control efficiency against Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) and significantly improved biosafety

[Display omitted] •EB@UiO-66-(COOH)2-PLL for pH responsive controlled release and prolonged activity.•EB@UiO-66-(COOH)2-PLL mitigated the degradation of EB and enhanced the wettability on leaves.•EB@UiO-66-(COOH)2-PLL affected the pest's growth, development, and reproduction across two generations.•EB@UiO-66-(COOH)2-PLL showed greatly reduced toxicity to non-target organisms. The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is a highly destructive pest that poses a serious threat to global food security. In this study, we developed an emamectin benzoate (EB) nanopesticide formulation for FAW control by using poly-L-lysine (PLL) modified zirconium-based metal–organic framework (UiO-66-(COOH)2) as pesticide carrier. The prepared EB@UiO-66-(COOH)2-PLL exhibited excellent stability and pH-response controlled-release performance. And, the anti UV degradation performance of the formulation also improved greatly compared with EB, which was beneficial for prolonging the persistence time of pesticide. In addition, the formulation showed excellent wettability and adhesion to maize leaves, contributing to its efficacy. Bioactivity assays demonstrated that EB@UiO-66-(COOH)2-PLL not only provides sustained control over the FAW but also affects the growth, development, and reproduction of both parent and offspring generations of the pest. Additionally, the formulation can alter the composition and abundance of the FAW’s gut microbiota, thereby affecting the availability of nutrients and energy. Moreover, biosafety assessments indicated no evident toxicity to non-target organisms, including Bombus terrestris, Telenomus remus and Eisenia fetida. These findings suggest that EB@UiO-66-(COOH)2-PLL is a promising candidate for integrated pest management and sustainable agriculture, offering long-lasting efficacy and reduced environmental impact.