Question

the nitrogen fixation in root nodules of leguminous plants in carried out by the enzyme nitrogenase. The enzyme is inhabited in the preserve of oxygen. Then how will the leguminous plant fix atmospheric nitrogen in the presence of oxygen?

Answer 1

Since the nitrogenase enzyme is inhibited in presence of oxygen, the nodule has adaptation that ensures that the enzyme is protected from the oxygen. The nodule contains a pigment called leg haemoglobin, an oxygen scavenger, which protects the oxygen-sensitive enzyme nitrogenase.