Nitrogen Fixation in Eukaryotes: New Models for Symbiosis
Author Information
Author(s): Christoph Kneip, Peter Lockhart, Christine Voß, Uwe-G Maier
Conclusion
Molecular nitrogen fixation is a widespread phenomenon involving many different organisms and ecosystems, reflecting a range of potential evolutionary fates for symbiotic partnerships.
Supporting Evidence
- Most nitrogen-fixing symbioses involve facultative interactions.
- Some interactions, like those between cyanobacteria and diatoms, show characteristics of obligate co-evolution.
- Nitrogen fixation is essential for the growth and development of many organisms.
Takeaway
Some tiny organisms can take nitrogen from the air and share it with plants and animals, helping them grow. This teamwork happens in many different ways.
Methodology
The study compares morphological, physiological, and molecular characteristics of nitrogen-fixing symbiotic associations between bacteria and their eukaryotic hosts.
Limitations
The extensive adaptation of plastids and mitochondria complicates the investigation of processes involved in the transition of symbionts to organelles.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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