The role of silicon in the supply of terrestrial ecosystem services

Abstract

Silicon (Si) is the most abundant element on the earth’s surface after oxygen. Si can be found in minerals, electronic chips, cosmetic products, and plants for instance. Here we review the Earth's terrestrial Si cycle, focussing on ecosystem services. We show that silicon can participate in the inherent and manageable properties involved in all ecosystem services. As records of the past, phytoliths can be useful parameters in cultural services. Si is involved in provisioning services because Si may influence the production of food and fibers. Si is also involved in regulating services because of Si involvement in carbon sequestration. Regulating and provisioning services may be improved through Si management, e.g. by application of Si to fertilize soils and plants.