Abstract
The role of lateral root nodules in N2 fixation and the relationships between total shoot N and several traits which influence or control N2 fixation in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)i.e., acetylene reduction value, specific nodule activity, leghemoglobin concentration, total leghemoglobin and nodule mass, were investigated in field studies. Significant variation among bean lines was observed for all the traits measured. Lines varied for the proportion of total N accumulated up to the R3 growth state, thus measurements of total shoot N near maturity (e.g., R7) provided a better estimate of total N2 fixation than measurements taken at an early growth stage. Nodule mass was correlated with acetylene reduction and total leghemoglobin, and total leghemoglobin was correlated with acetylene reduction value. Total shoot N at R7 was correlated with seasonal means of nodule mass and number, acetylene reduction value and total leghemoglobin. For all traits except total leghemoglobin, values for lateral roots were more highly correlated with total shoot N than were values for either crown roots or the whole root system. Seed yield was most highly correlated with nodule mass of the lateral roots. These results will be useful in devising breeding strategies for improved N2 fixation of the host plant.
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Wolyn, D.J., Attewell, J., Ludden, P.W. et al. Indirect measures of N2 fixation in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) under field conditions: The role of lateral root nodules. Plant Soil 113, 181–187 (1989). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02280179
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02280179