Natural variation in symbiotic nitrogen-fixing Rhizobium and Frankia spp.

A description is given of the natural variation in nitrogen-fixing Rhizobium and Frankia spp. strains and the ability to form root nodules on compatible host plants. Arguments are given for the hypothesis that co-evolution has taken place through mutual interaction of host plants and indigenous Rhizobium and Frankia populations in the soil leading to most efficient symbiotic associations. The significance of root nodules as selective enrichment cultures of particular strains in natural and cultivated soils is exemplified by Rhizobium leguminosarum on various ecotypes of Pisum sativum and with Frankia sp. on various actinorhizal plants, in particular Alnus spp., in different geographic regions. The importance of a host-dependent distribution of Rhizobium and Frankia spp. for agriculture and forestry is discussed.