Nodulation status of the Leguminosae.

Abstract

Leguminosae form one of the largest families of flowering plants, with c.640 genera and 17-18 000 species. Historical and contemporary phytogeography are outlined. The bacterial family Rhizobiaceae consists of the genera Rhizobium and Agrobacterium, the former being discussed in terms of nodulation and the consequent ability to fix nitrogen. Occurrence of nodules and the association of nodulation with crop and pasture legumes are then described, and the importance of the symbiosis between rhizobia and Leguminosae in terms of food production is stressed.-P.J.Jarvis