Nitrogen fixation

Nitrogen fixation is the process by which nitrogen is taken from its relatively inert molecular form (N2) in the atmosphere and converted into nitrogen compounds useful for other chemical processes (such as, notably, ammonia, nitrate and nitrogen dioxide).

Leguminous nitrogen fixing plants

The best known are legumes such as clover which contain symbiotic bacteria called rhizobia within nodules in their root systems, producing nitrogen compounds that help to fertilize the soil. The great majority of legumes have this association, but a few genera (e.g. Styphnolobium) do not.

Related Topics:
Legume - Clover - Symbiotic - Rhizobia - Nodules - Root systems - Soil - Styphnolobium

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