Category: Science > Nitrogen-fixation
One of the most astonishing roles that bacteria play in our ecosystem is their ability to fix nitrogen, a process crucial for plant growth. Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for plants, but atmospheric nitrogen (N2) is not directly usable by most living organisms. Certain bacteria, known as nitrogen-fixing bacteria, have the unique ability to convert this inert nitrogen gas into ammonia, which plants can absorb and utilize. This symbiotic relationship is most famously exemplified in legume plants, such as peas and clover, which host these bacteria in specialized root nodules. This natural process not only enriches the soil but also reduces the need for chemical fertilizers, showcasing the vital role that these tiny organisms play in sustaining agriculture and supporting biodiversity in terrestrial ecosystems.