$\mathcal{G}$-structure symmetries and anomalies in $(1,0)$ non-linear $\sigma$-models

Abstract

A new symmetry of $(1,0)$ supersymmetric non-linear $\sigma$-models in two dimensions with Fermi and mass sectors is introduced. It is a generalisation of the so-called special holonomy $W$-symmetry of Howe and Papadopoulos associated with structure group reductions of the target space $\mathcal{M}$. Our symmetry allows in particular non-trivial flux and instanton-like connections on vector bundles over $\mathcal{M}$. We also investigate potential anomalies and show that cohomologically non-trivial terms in the quantum effective action are invariant under a corrected version of our symmetry. Consistency with heterotic supergravity at first order in $\alpha'$ is manifest and discussed.