Question

Why are cyanobacteria considered useful in paddy fields?

Answer 1

Cyanobacteria

Cyanobacteria like Anabaena and Nostoc have been used as biofertilisers as they have specialised cells called heterocyst that can fix atmospheric nitrogen into absorbable forms.

Role in paddy fields

They are used mainly in water logged paddy fields because of the following reasons:-

• These organisms can fix atmospheric nitrogen. This increases the soil fertility enhancing the growth and yield of paddy.
• They add organic biomass to the soil, further increasing soil fertility.