Silicon fertilization increases gas-exchange and biomass by silicophytolith deposition in the leaves of contrasting drought-tolerant sugarcane cultivars under well-watered conditions

Silicon (Si) fertilization provides benefits to sugarcane. However, information remain scarce about the relationship between Si fertilization, gas exchange responses, biomass and silicophytolith accumulation in contrasting drought tolerant sugarcane cultivars under well-watered conditions Sugarcane (drought-tolerant drought-sensitive) were grown pots containing soil with low available treated (at rates equivalent 0, 250, 500, 750, 1000 kg ha−1 Si) as silicate. The contents, morphotype descriptions, concentrations evaluated top visible dewlap leaves. Stalk length stalk also evaluated. silicophytolith, net CO2 assimilation rate (A), plant transpiration (E), stomatal conductance (gs) electron transport (ETR) of leaves fresh stalks increased linearly functions application rate, independent cultivar. RB86-7515 showed highest length, green leaf biomass, relative water content, potential, while RB85-5536 superior values for A, E, gs, ETR. improved photosynthesis, transpiration, production content was reflected a diversity silicified cells, which may favor higher photosynthesis biomass. increase silicification stomata complexes trichomes be associated availability transpiration. Contrasting drought-tolerant similar responses Si. Considering these benefits, should included program