Indigenous endophytic seed bacteria promote seedling development and defend against fungal disease in browntop millet (<i>Urochloa ramosa</i>L.)

This study is significant and original in that it is the first report of seed-inhabiting endophytes of browntop millet that influence seedling development and function in defence against soilborne pathogens. This study suggests that conservation and management of seed-vectored endophytes may be important in development of more sustainable agricultural practices.