| Description | Mesorhizobium loti is a species of bacteria that thrives in a wide range of temperatures, falling under the category of psychrophilic, with a preference for temperatures between 15°C and 30°C. As a chemoheterotroph, it obtains its energy by breaking down organic compounds, such as plant-derived nutrients, which serve as its primary source of carbon and energy. This microbe produces energy through aerobic respiration, utilizing oxygen to convert its energy sources into usable ATP. Mesorhizobium loti is a Gram-negative bacterium, with a characteristic Gram-staining reaction. Its cells are typically rod-shaped, with a size range of 0.5-1.5 μm in length and 0.5-1.0 μm in width. This bacterium is found in soil and associated with legume roots, where it forms nitrogen-fixing symbioses with plant hosts. Mesorhizobium loti is an obligate aerobe, requiring the presence of oxygen to survive and thrive. In fact, it is sensitive to low oxygen levels and cannot tolerate anaerobic conditions. This microbe's affinity for oxygen is directly linked to its ability to fix nitrogen, a process that requires the reduction of atmospheric nitrogen (N2) to ammonium ions (NH4+). In addition to its unique metabolic characteristics, Mesorhizobium loti has been recognized for its potential applications in sustainable agriculture. For instance, its ability to fix nitrogen makes it a valuable tool in reducing the environmental impact of synthetic fertilizers. Furthermore, research has also focused on understanding the genetic mechanisms underlying its symbiotic relationships with legumes, which could lead to the development of more efficient and sustainable crop rotation practices. |
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