NOMENCLATURE OF THE ROOT-NODULE BACTERIA OF THE LEGUMINOSAE

Abstract

-A discussion of the nomenclature and number of species in the root-nodule bacteria of the Leguminosae is followed by the suggestions that a separate species should be recognized for the members of each cross-inoculation group, and the following are the most appropriate names: Rhizo-bium leguminosarum Frank, causing nodules on roots of Lathyrus, Pisum, Vicia and Lens. R. trifolii Dangeard, causing nodules on the roots of Trifolium sp. R. phaseoli Dangeard, causing nodules on Phaseolus vulgaris, P. angustifolia and P. multifiorus. R. meliloti Dangeard, causing nodules on Melilotus, Medicago and Trigonella. R. japonicum (Rhizobacterium japoni-cum Kirchner) (p. 149), causing root nodules on Soja max. Descriptions of the species are appended, and it is stated that it will be desirable to increase the list of species as the study of the organisms from nodules of other legumes progresses.