Question

In the symbiotic relationship between a bacteria and a leguminous plant, which of the following statement is true?

• A. Bacteria provide $N_2$ and the plant roots provide carbohydrates to the bacteria
• B. Roots provide $N{H}_4^{+}$ and bacteria provides carbohydrates to the plant
• C. Bacteria provide $N{H}_4^{+}$ and the plant roots provide carbohydrates to the bacteria
• D. Bacteria provide $N_2$ and the roots provide $N{H}_4^{+}$

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Bacteria provide $N{H}_4^{+}$ and the plant roots provide carbohydrates to the bacteria

In legumes, Rhizobium bacteria live in small growths of the roots called nodules. Within these nodules, nitrogen fixation is done by this bacteria, i.e., they convert atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia and the $N{H}_3$ produced is utilised by the plant. Nitrogen fixation by legumes is a partnership between the bacteria and the plant. Plants get their nutrition from these nitrogenous compounds and the bacteria, in turn, gets nourishment (carbohydrates) from the plants.