Rhizobia
Rhizobia
Rhizobia (/raɪˈzoʊbiə/ rye-ZOH-bee-ə) are a group of soil bacteria that fix nitrogen after becoming established inside root nodules of legumes (Fabaceae).
Etymology
The term Rhizobia comes from the Greek words "rhiza" meaning root and "bios" meaning life. It refers to their ability to live symbiotically within the roots of leguminous plants.
Function
Rhizobia are known for their role in nitrogen fixation, a process that converts atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can use for growth. This symbiotic relationship is beneficial for both the bacteria and the host plant. The bacteria receive sugars and other nutrients from the plant, while the plant benefits from the nitrogen that the bacteria fix.
Types of Rhizobia
There are several types of Rhizobia, including Rhizobium, Sinorhizobium, Mesorhizobium, Bradyrhizobium, and Azorhizobium. Each type has a specific host range, meaning it can only form nodules with certain species of legumes.
Related Terms
- Nitrogen fixation: The process by which nitrogen in the atmosphere is converted into a form that plants can use.
- Legumes: A family of plants that includes peas, beans, lentils, and peanuts. Many legumes form symbiotic relationships with Rhizobia.
- Nodule: A small, roundish growth on the roots of leguminous plants where Rhizobia live and fix nitrogen.
- Symbiosis: A close and long-term biological interaction between two different biological organisms.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Rhizobia
- Wikipedia's article - Rhizobia
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