Plants · 5 authors, 2 centres
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This narrative review explores the diversity of plant symbiotic nitrogen fixation beyond the classic legume–rhizobia model, covering actinorhizal, cycad, and Parasponia symbioses, as well as non-root nodules. It concludes that rhizobial symbiosis provides benefits beyond nitrogen, such as modulating plant stress responses, and highlights future research directions to improve plant growth and protection.
This narrative review synthesizes literature on plant–microbe symbioses for nitrogen fixation, focusing on non-typical examples beyond the well-studied legume–rhizobia interaction. The authors discuss alternative nodule structures and functions in actinorhizal-*Frankia*, cycad-cyanobacteria, and *Parasponia andersonii*-rhizobia symbioses, including nodules found on stems and leaves. The review highlights that rhizobial symbiosis provides host plants with benefits beyond nitrogen, such as priming defense responses and enhancing resistance to biotic and abiotic stress. The implications suggest that understanding these reciprocal benefits could inform future research to reduce pesticide and fertilizer use.
