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Impacts of Silicon Fertilization on Phytolith Accumulation and Morphological Variation in Rice

Ratchapon Prakongkaew, Attachai Trunjaruen, Wasinee Pongprayoon, Chakkree Lekklar, Boonlue Kachenchart, Marsuton Sanyapeung, Prapakorn Tantayotai

Abstract


Phytoliths are microscopic silica bodies formed within plant tissues and deposited in intercellular and intracellular spaces, contributing to long-term soil fertility and carbon sequestration. However, the effects of different silicon fertilizer sources on phytolith accumulation and morphology in rice remain unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to compare monosilicic acid and sodium metasilicate in terms of their effects on phytolith accumulation, physiological responses, phytolith morphology, and soil phytolith composition in RD43 rice. Sodium metasilicate application increased shoot phytolith content and chlorophyll b concentration. It also significantly enhanced the electron transport rate (ETR), tiller number, and root length. A total of 15 phytolith morphotypes were identified across fertilized and unfertilized treatments. Bilobate was the most common phytolith type in both roots and shoots. Bulliform flabellate and spheroidal psilate were observed only in the shoots of rice treated with sodium metasilicate. Four silica-containing mineral phases—quartz, alum, halloysite, and kaolinite–montmorillonite—were identified in the soil phytolith fractions. Quartz and alum were more abundant in the soil treated with sodium metasilicate. These findings suggest that the type of silicon fertilizer may influence phytolith distribution and accumulation in plants, as well as the mineral composition of soil phytolith fractions. Sodium metasilicate shows potential as an effective silicon source with both agronomic and environmental benefits.

Keywords



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DOI: 10.14416/j.asep.2026.09.010

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