Question

In leguminous plants, there exists a symbiotic association between the plant and the bacterium. Choose the correct statement regarding this.

• A. The bacteria derive reduced $N_2$ from plant
• B. The bacteria supply reduced $N_2$ to the plant and receive sugars from plant
• C. The nodule is produced by the plant independent of bacteria
• D. The plant growth is inhibited by the factors produced by bacteria

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Legumes form a unique symbiotic relationship with bacteria known as Rhizobium, which they allow to infect their roots. This leads to root nodule formation where bacteria are accommodated to convert nitrogen from the air into ammonia that the plant can use for growth. In turn, bacteria receive food from the plants in the form of sugars.