Question

Why does rhizobium bacteria help the pea plant

Answer 1

The leguminous plants contain a bacteria known as Rhizobium in the root nodules. These nodules are the sites for nitrogen fixation. Through this process Nitrogen in atmosphere which is inert, is changed into nitrogenous compound such as ammonia which can be utilised by living forms. Nodules contain enzymes which convert nitrogen into usable form. This nitrogen is then utilised by plants to synthesise proteins and other such compounds. The Rhizoboium bacteria on the other hand gets shelter and nutrition and pea plant acts as a host for Rhizobium bacteria.