Integration of Nanobubble Technology With Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Enhances Both Host and Herbivore Traits in Cotton‐Tarnished Plant Bug System

ABSTRACT Nanobubble (NB) technology generates water that contains tiny gas‐filled spheres, which are highly efficient in elevating dissolved oxygen (DO) levels in irrigated water. Although, there is an increasing interest in the diverse applications of NBs in the fields of environmental science and agriculture, few studies have empirically tested these in agroecosystems. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) is a beneficial microbial symbiont group that is well documented for improving plant growth and development, mainly through root growth and increased nutrient absorption. Since low DO prevents microorganisms from converting ammonia and nitrates, leading to toxin buildup in irrigation water that damages plant roots, integrating NB with AMF can potentially benefit plant traits. To test this, we investigated the effects of the application of NB water and AMF at different concentrations and combinations on cotton plants and their interaction with insect herbivores. Our results show that NBs and AMF have a positive impact on overall plant health. We also found that the survival rate of insect herbivores was higher when reared on treated plants than control, suggesting trade‐offs. AMF and NBs treatment combinations enhanced plant growth, and can be potentially incorporated into sustainable agriculture strategies.