Nitrogen-fixing bacteria
Japanese: 窒素固定菌
Microorganisms capable of converting atmospheric nitrogen gas (N2) into biologically available ammonia (NH3). Rhizobium and Azotobacter are representative examples.
Nitrogen-fixing bacteria are microorganisms with the ability to convert atmospheric nitrogen gas (N2) into ammonia (NH3) that plants can use. Nitrogen makes up 78% of the atmosphere, yet in its gaseous form it is unusable by most organisms. Nitrogen-fixing bacteria translate this inert molecule into the language of life.
Rhizobium, which forms symbiotic nodules on legume roots, is well known. In exchange for energy from the plant's photosynthesis, it fixes nitrogen—a splendid mutualism.
Though not directly connected to fermented foods, nitrogen-fixing bacteria support the agricultural foundation, indirectly contributing to the growth of grains and soybeans that become fermentation ingredients.