Which of the following species of bacteria lives symbiotically in root nodules of legumes?
Answer Details
Rhizobium is the species of bacteria that lives symbiotically in root nodules of legumes. Rhizobium forms a mutualistic relationship with leguminous plants such as peas, beans, and alfalfa, among others. The bacteria colonize the root hairs of the legume and stimulate the development of specialized structures called nodules. Inside the nodules, the Rhizobium bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that the plant can use, in exchange for carbohydrates produced by the plant. This symbiotic relationship is essential for the growth of leguminous crops and also contributes to the nitrogen balance in soil.