ABSTRACT
Within the symbiotic group heterotrophic bacteria that perform BNF by establishing symbiotic relationships with leguminous plants, collectively called rhizobia can be found. BNF involving host-specific symbiotic interactions between root-nodulating bacteria and legumes has received a lot of research attention due to the central role it plays in the maintenance of soil fertility. The Leguminosae (Fabaceae) is the third largest fl owering plant family, which has the potential to contribute to soil N and increase subsequent or associated non-nodulating crops yields through symbiotic nitrogen fi xation.
