Volatile Organic Compound Emissions From Flower Buds and Fruits of Cotton Plants Treated With Beneficial Fungi

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to analyze volatile organic compounds (VOCs) of developing flower buds (squares) and immature fruits (bolls) of cotton plants (Gossypium hirsutum L.) when treated with plant associated fungi (Beauveria bassiana and Phialemonium inflatum). These compounds will be analyzed by gas chromatography to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Experiments will be conducted using excised squares and bolls from both greenhouse and field plants. The results will be evaluated to indicate if plant associated fungi impact the ability of the plant to produce chemicals that could potentially deter insects from consuming the plant. VOCs are known to influence herbivorous insects’ ability to locate plants (Dudareva et al. 2006, Holopainen 2004). Beneficial fungi were found to affect herbivorous insects’ behavior, potentially from the influence of VOC emissions (Sword et al 2017). Through this research it can be expected that there will be a difference in volatile emissions due to treatment, tissue type, and locations, but the positive or negative effects may not be as clear.