John Innes Centre scientists found a new way to accelerate the nitrogen fixing process without using bacteria, normally used to trigger nodulation in legumes — a key element of the process. The scientists have used a key gene required by the legumes for establishing the interaction with the nitrogen-fixing bacteria that triggers the root nodules’ growth. And this happens even in the bacteria’s absence.
It is found that nitrogen in soil lead to increase global warming. So, this finding proves an important step towards transferring nodulation — and possibly nitrogen fixation — to non-legume crops. Thus, the need for inorganic fertilizers can be reduced effectively, contributing towards the health of the environment.
Via: Science Daily
