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Focus: plant silicon research

Plant productivity is often threatened by biotic and abiotic stresses, ranging from herbivorous pests to environmental extremes such as drought. We investigate how plant silicon may help protect plants in the face of global change.

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There is growing consensus that plant silicon can alleviate many of these stresses by improving plant defences against herbivores (e.g. physical structures) and altering physiological processes in the plant (e.g. water use efficiency).​

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We aim to identify the molecular, physiological and chemical mechanisms underpinning these benefits and develop translational opportunities for plant protection.

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We work with key industries, farmer groups and land managers to identify opportunities to solve contemporary issues in the agriculture.

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Our silicon research fits broadly within five categories. Click on the relevant icon below to find relevant publications.

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1.3. Si in Periodic Table.jpg
Plant background.tif
Greenhouse gases
and warming
Plant defence against herbivores
Mutualistic plant microbes
Drought
Interspecific interactions and biocontrol
wheat farmer.jpg
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