Abstract
Silicon (Si) is the second most abundant element in earth's crust and is considered as beneficial element for providing tolerance against various biotic and abiotic stresses. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of silicon in water stress tolerance in maize as depicted through agro- morphological/ physiological parameters. We evaluated 15 diverse maize genotypes/ inbred lines under rain-fed conditions with, as well as without, Si application. Significant differences were observed in various agro-morphological and physiological parameters under Si+ and Si- conditions. The number of kernel per ear was significantly higher in Si+ conditions. The various physiological parameters observed include; anthesis- silking interval, relative water content, stomatal density and canopy temperature. All these parameters indicated the positive impact of Si on water stress tolerance in case of maize genotypes under study. These results specified that Si plays an important role in giving tolerance against drought/ water stress. The study can be further extended to investigate the molecular mechanism involved in Si induced water stress tolerance in maize.
Highlights
Maize (Zea mays L.) is an important cereal and fodder crop occupying 27% of the world acreage and accounts for about 34% of the world grain production
Drought affects the organ growth and leads to reduction in leaf and silk elongation decrease in light interception and increase in anthesis-silking interval, affecting corn production (Boyer, 1970; Saab and Sharp, 1989)
Gong et al (2003) have reported increase in the plant height in case of wheat grown in pots with Si under well watered conditions, no significant changes in the dry materials under drought conditions were observed on application of Si
Summary
Maize (Zea mays L.) is an important cereal and fodder crop occupying 27% of the world acreage and accounts for about 34% of the world grain production. It is world’s third most important cereal crop while drought is second important constraint of maize production in the developing countries. Drought affects the organ growth and leads to reduction in leaf and silk elongation decrease in light interception and increase in anthesis-silking interval, affecting corn production (Boyer, 1970; Saab and Sharp, 1989). The role of various macro- and micro- nutrients in enhancing the yield has been understood very well.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
