Effects of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) on Growth and Herbivore Defenses in Sorghum Sudangrass (Sorghum X drummondii)

Author

Jasleen Kaur, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Date of Award

5-2020

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Biology

First Advisor

Dr. Rupesh Kariyat

Second Advisor

Dr. Teresa Patricia Feria Arroyo

Third Advisor

Dr. Matthew Terry

Abstract

Chapter 2: In this chapter we have examined the role of trichomes in plant stress biology, reviewed the studies on herbivore X trichome interactions, and their role in plant defences. Ultimately, we have proposed new areas of research for future work.

Chapter 3: In this chapter, we examined whether AMF has cascading effects on insect community dynamics through attraction/repulsion of beneficial and damaging insects using Sorghum-sudangrass (Sorghum x drummondii), either inoculated with commercial AMF mix or left as control in lab and field experiments. Our results suggest positive effects of AMF on plant growth, and a lower initial incidence of fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda), a major herbivore on Sorghum in the region. Besides, AMF inoculated plants attracted significantly more beneficial insects (predators and parasitoids) and a lower number of damaging herbivores. Therefore, our data suggests that AMF can have implications for sustainable pest management strategies.

Comments

Copyright 2020 Jasleen Kaur. All Rights Reserved.

https://go.openathens.net/redirector/utrgv.edu?url=https://www.proquest.com/dissertations-theses/effects-arbuscular-mycorrhizal-fungi-amf-on/docview/2426123271/se-2?accountid=7119

Recommended Citation

Kaur, Jasleen, "Effects of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) on Growth and Herbivore Defenses in Sorghum Sudangrass (Sorghum X drummondii)" (2020). Theses and Dissertations. 487.
https://scholarworks.utrgv.edu/etd/487