Which of the following are nitrogen-fixing plants?

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1, 3 and 4 only

(b) 1, 3, 5 and 6 only

(d) 1, 2, 4,5 and 6

Explanation

The correct answer for the given question is (a) 1, 3, and 4 only. The nitrogen-fixing plants among the options are:

Alfalfa: Alfalfa is a legume crop that fixes substantial amounts of nitrogen (N) through its symbiotic relationship with Rhizobium bacteria residing in its root nodules.
Chickpea: Chickpeas are legumes that can fix 60% to 80% of their nitrogen requirements through nitrogen fixation. They form a symbiotic relationship with Rhizobium species for nitrogen fixation.
Clover: Clovers fix nitrogen through a symbiotic relationship with Rhizobium bacteria that infect the plant’s roots. A vigorous stand of white clover can fix 100-150 pounds of nitrogen per year depending on soil and growing conditions.

The other plants in the list are not nitrogen-fixing:

Amaranth: Amaranth is not a nitrogen-fixing plant. It belongs to the Amaranthus genus and is known for its nutritional value, but it does not fix nitrogen.
Purslane (Kulfa): Purslane is not a nitrogen-fixing plant. It is a succulent plant known for its nutritional and medicinal properties, but it does not fix nitrogen.
Spinach: Spinach is not a nitrogen-fixing plant. It is a leafy green vegetable known for its nutritional value, but it does not fix nitrogen.

Nitrogen fixation is a process where atmospheric nitrogen (N2) is converted into more reactive compounds like nitrates, nitrites, or ammonia, which can be utilized by plants.
Nitrogen-fixing plants form a symbiotic relationship with specific bacteria (e.g., Rhizobium) that live in nodules along the plant’s roots. These bacteria can transform atmospheric nitrogen into an organic form that plants can use for growth.
Nitrogen-fixing plants are beneficial for soil health and fertility, as they can reduce or eliminate the need for nitrogen fertilizers in agricultural systems.
Some common nitrogen-fixing plants include legumes like peas, beans, lentils, and soybeans, as well as non-legume plants like alder trees and certain species of lupines.