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Silicon (Si) is a mineral known to enhance pest resistance in plants belonging to the Poaceae family. However, studies suggest potential benefits of Si in other botanical families such as Fabaceae. Thus, our hypothesis that Si applied in the form of 94.6% silicate would increase cowpea resistance to the stink bug Crinocerus sanctus (Fabricius), in addition to benefiting the physiological aspects of the plant. This study evaluated the vegetative development, total chlorophyll content, yield parameters, and resistance of two cowpea varieties against C. sanctus when sprayed with different doses of Si. Two different doses of Si were administered: the recommended manufacturer's dose (1 g L^-1) and a doubled dose (2 g L^-1), in addition to a control group (0 g L^-1). Plants treated with Si exhibited lower insect density and fewer pods with signs of injury. The peak insect population was observed at the onset of the cowpea's reproductive stage. Furthermore, the chlorophyll content increased from 42 mg m^-2 (in the control group) to 48 mg m^-2 in Si-treated plants. While the plant height and yield parameters of cowpea remained unaffected by Si application, there was a reduction in the dry mass of the aerial parts in Si-treated crops. This study demonstrated that cowpea can accumulate Si, and its application can enhance resistance against C. sanctus.



 

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The aim of this study was to determine the differences in digit sizes from both pelvic limbs of 169 dairy cows of different genetic groups (Holstein, Jersey, Brown Swiss, and Jersolando), in lactating and non-lactating conditions, and their relation with diseases. Images were taken from the plantar view of the lateral and medial digits, and the length and width of the sole and bulb were then measured. Variables were discarded and factors for analysis were defined. Data were defined according to the highest coefficients and used to discriminate genetic groups and their association with indexes of foot diseases and productive performance. The Chi-square test showed that higher involvement occurred in lactating cows and in the right pelvic limb. Differences among all genetic groups were observed regarding the variables body weight, productive longevity, incidence of foot diseases, and generated factors. The Jersey breed was isolated from the other genetic groups because it presented lower coefficients for all variables; Holstein and Brown Swiss presented the highest morphometric measures of the digits, a higher body weight, and productive longevity, and higher rates of foot diseases. The Jersolando presented intermediate values ​​between those of the two breeds from which it originated. The susceptibility to foot diseases is associated with breed, lactational stage, body weight, and with the morphometric parameters of the digits.