Changes in root architecture and productivity of melon (Cucumis melo L. cv. Hispano Nunhems) promoted by Glomus iranicum var. tenuihypharum

ABSTRACT

In this work, the effect of inoculation with the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus Glomus iranicum var. tenuihypharum on the root development and yield of melon plants (Cucumis melo L. cv. Hispano de Nunhems), grown in soil under intensive agriculture for four months, was evaluated. The parameters root length, root volume, area, number of root tips, rhizosphere activity, yield, and crop quality were measured. The inoculated melon plants had an increased percentage of colonisation, which reached 75% at the end of experiment. As a consequence, the inoculated plants exhibited greater rhizospheric activity with higher bacterial and fungal population than the control plants. Inoculation produced a greater volume of roots. It was also observed a higher area of roots with a diameter less than 0.2 mm, and a greater number of tips in roots with a diameter less than 0.5 mm. This suggested a proliferation of lateral roots and significant changes on the root architecture. In addition, these plants had greater fruit number and length, yield, and fruit sugar content than untreated plants. Therefore, the mycorrhizal association had a strong positive effect on the architecture and root activity, which stimulated the capacity for nutrient absorption, resulting in a higher yield and fruit quality.

KEYWORDS:

• Mycorrhizal inoculation
• rhizosphere activity
• root structure
• fruit quality
• yield

Acknowledgments

The authors wish to thank to the company SYMBORG SL for its financial support to carry out this investigation as well as the Polytechnic University of Cartagena (UPCT), for the use of its facilities and logistical support.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Symborg [‎B73574832];Universidad Politécnica de Cartagena [Q-8050013-E];