Factors Limiting N2 Fixation by the Legume-Rhizobium Symbiosis

  • Frank R. Minchin
  • John E. Sheehy
  • John F. Witty
Chapter
Part of the Current Plant Science and Biotechnology in Agriculture book series (PSBA, volume 1)

Abstract

It is not our intention to produce yet another review of the numerous publications concerning factors limiting N2 fixation but rather to recommend novel directions for the future. The need for a new impetus was perceived in a review of environmental factors by Sprent et al (1983) where it was noted that many alternative hypotheses were available which postulated either a direct effect of these factors on the nodule system or an indirect effect acting via the host plant. Such conflicts must be resolved if research into limiting factors is to contribute to the improvement of nitrogen fixation by legume crops. However, before progress can be made it is necessary to improve the accuracy of techniques which measure nitrogen fixation and related processes, and to focus greater attention on the role of oxygen supply.

Keywords

Nitrogen Fixation Oxygen Supply White Clover Diffusion Resistance Nodule System 
These keywords were added by machine and not by the authors. This process is experimental and the keywords may be updated as the learning algorithm improves.
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Copyright information

© Martinus Nijhoff Publishers, Dordrecht 1985

Authors and Affiliations

  • Frank R. Minchin
    • 1
    • 2
  • John E. Sheehy
    • 1
    • 2
  • John F. Witty
    • 1
    • 2
  1. 1.The Animal and Grassland Research InstituteMaidenhead, Berks.UK
  2. 2.Rothamsted Experimental StationHerts.UK

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