Summary
Rhizobium and others convert atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia for plants.
In depth
Nitrogenase converts N2 to NH3 and is inhibited by oxygen. Rhizobium in legume root nodules uses leghaemoglobin to protect it. Free-living fixers include Azotobacter and cyanobacteria (Anabaena).
This reduces the need for fertiliser.
Nitrogenase requires lots of ATP and anaerobic conditions. Symbiotic fixers supply plants; free-living fixers enrich soils. Industrial nitrogen fertiliser mimics this.
Key idea: fixation converts N2 to NH3.
Frequently asked questions
What is Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria?
Rhizobium and others convert atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia for plants.
Which area of biology covers Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria, and how advanced is it?
Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria is one of the 54 topics in Microbiology. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Bacterial Metabolism, Cyanobacteria, Bacteria.
Can you give an example of Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria?
Soybean cultivation fixes up to 300 kg N per hectare per year.
What should I learn before Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria?
Work through the Beginner topics in Microbiology first, such as Microorganisms, Bacteria, Archaea, then return to Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria?
The closest topics to Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria are Bacterial Metabolism, Cyanobacteria, Bacteria, Culture Media. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria. To practise the whole of Microbiology, use the Microbiology quiz.
How is Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria different from Bacterial Metabolism?
Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria: Rhizobium and others convert atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia for plants. Bacterial Metabolism: Bacteria are aerobes, anaerobes or facultative, and may be phototrophs or chemotrophs. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Bacterial Metabolism and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Microbiology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.