Some types of soil bacteria can form the nitrogen compounds that plants need. This is known as...........

Question

fixation bacteria. There are many kinds of them. THe most important belong to the genus Rhizobium

Answer 1

The process of certain types of soil bacteria forming nitrogen compounds that plants need is known as nitrogen fixation. Specifically, symbiotic bacteria belonging to the genus Rhizobium are highly important for this process. Rhizobium bacteria establish a mutualistic relationship with leguminous plants, such as soybeans, peas, and clovers. These bacteria reside in the root nodules of these plants and convert atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into a usable form, ammonium (NH4+), through a process called nitrogen fixation. This conversion allows plants to acquire the essential nutrient nitrogen, which is a crucial component of proteins and other essential cellular compounds. In return, the plants provide the bacteria with carbohydrates and other nutrients, creating a mutually beneficial partnership.