Rhizobium

Rhizobium is a genus of bacteria that forms a symbiotic relationship with certain plants. It is found in the roots of leguminous plants and helps fix nitrogen, a nutrient essential for plant growth, from the atmosphere into the soil. Rhizobium is used in modern agricultural and horticultural practice to increase crop yields and reduce the need for artificial nitrogen fertilization. Rhizobium is also used in bioremediation, the process of removing pollutants from contaminated soil and water. These bacteria can break down pollutants such as petroleum by-products and heavy metals, thus making the environment cleaner and safer.