COMPOSITION OF SOYBEAN NODULES AND ROOT NODULE BACTERIA

Abstract

The paper reports studies on the N components of 4 spp. of root nodule bacteria; a comparison of the soluble and condensed forms of N in tops, roots, and nodules of soybeans; and detailed analyses of the N components of nodular tissue. The bacteria show a constancy of composition irrespective of their cross-inoculation grouping. While the N content of nodules is higher than in the rest of the plant, the types of N compounds present are very similar. No unique components exist except for a markedly high content of arginine in nodular tissue. The fraction "other" N, which increases as the plant ages, is probably proline.