The total bacterial population in the rhizosphere of ten melon and two snake melon genotypes was significantly 59 to 68% higher than control soil. For most tested genotypes, a significant increase in the culturable rhizospheric actinomycetes, about to , was recorded comparatively to control soil. Fungal population counts in the rhizosphere of tested genotypes were significantly comparable to control. The genotypic difference in melon and snake melon reflects the quantum and diversity of their microbiomes that melon breeders could benefit when seeking at the holobiont concept to include associated microbiomes in breeding programs. |
