The function of leg haemoglobin in the root nodules of legumes is : [2...
Leghaemoglobin is the haemoglobin like red pigments found in root nodules of legumes and reported to function as an oxygen-carrying pigment in symbiotic nitrogen fixation.
View all questions of this test
The function of leg haemoglobin in the root nodules of legumes is : [2...
"Leghaemoglobin" is haemoglobin like red pigment in the root nodules of leguminous plants, as soybean, that is essential for nitrogen fixation. It acts as an oxygen scavenger.
Its main function can hence be considered as creating an oxygen-free environment by removing oxygen so that Nitrogen fixation can occur. So, the correct answer is 'Oxygen removal'.
The function of leg haemoglobin in the root nodules of legumes is : [2...
The function of leg haemoglobin in the root nodules of legumes is to remove oxygen.
Explanation:
Legumes have a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria called Rhizobia. The bacteria reside in specialized plant organs called root nodules. The nodules provide a suitable environment for the bacteria to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that the plant can utilize, i.e., ammonia.
During nitrogen fixation, the enzyme nitrogenase is utilized by Rhizobia to convert atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia. Nitrogenase is highly sensitive to oxygen and can be irreversibly damaged by it. Therefore, it is essential to maintain low oxygen levels in the nodule for successful nitrogen fixation to occur.
Here comes the role of leg haemoglobin. Leg haemoglobin is a protein that binds to oxygen and removes it from the nodule. It acts as an oxygen buffer and maintains low oxygen levels within the nodule, creating an anaerobic environment that is suitable for nitrogen fixation by Rhizobia.
In conclusion, the function of leg haemoglobin in the root nodules of legumes is to remove oxygen and maintain low oxygen levels within the nodule, which is essential for successful nitrogen fixation to occur.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed NEET study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in NEET.