STUDIES ON THE LEGUME ROOT NODULE BACTERIA: II. THE PRODUCTION AND BEHAVIOR OF COLONIAL MUTANTS PRODUCED BY X-RAY IRRADIATION

Abstract

Four distinct types of colonial mutation were obtained by X-ray irradiation of a parasitic strain of alfalfa Rhizobium. Two types were procured from an effective strain. Colonial morphology remained stable throughout serial transfer on artificial medium, but changed considerably after one plant passage. Three variants derived from the parasitic parent were found to be efficient in nitrogen fixation when tested by sterile plant growth procedures and the Virtanen technique. This efficiency increased during the course of two plant passages. Colonial variation and effectivity changes occurred independently of one another.