UPSC Prelims 2022·GS1·geography·ecology and environment

Which of the following are nitrogen-fixing plants? 1. Alfalfa 2. Amaranth 3. Chickpea 4. Clover 5. Purslane (Kulfa) 6. Spinach Select the correct answer using the code given below:

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  1. A1, 3 and 4 onlyCorrect
  2. B1, 3, 5 and 6 only
  3. C2, 4, 5 and 6 only
  4. D1, 2, 4, 5 and 6

Explanation

Nitrogen-fixing plants are those that can convert atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into ammonia (NH3) through a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, primarily Rhizobium bacteria living in root nodules. These are typically legumes. Let's examine the given plants:

  1. Alfalfa: Correct. Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is a leguminous forage crop widely known for its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen, significantly improving soil fertility.

  2. Amaranth: Incorrect. Amaranth (Amaranthus spp.) is a leafy vegetable and grain crop. It is not a legume and does not fix nitrogen. It is known for being a high-nitrogen feeder.

  3. Chickpea: Correct. Chickpea (Cicer arietinum) is a well-known legume and a pulse crop. Like other legumes, it forms a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria in its root nodules.

  4. Clover: Correct. Clover (Trifolium spp.) is a common leguminous cover crop and forage plant widely used in agriculture for its nitrogen-fixing capabilities and soil improvement benefits.

  5. Purslane (Kulfa): Incorrect. Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) is a succulent leafy vegetable. It is not a legume and does not fix nitrogen.

  6. Spinach: Incorrect. Spinach (Spinacia oleracea) is a leafy green vegetable. It is not a legume and is known for being a heavy feeder of nitrogen from the soil, rather than fixing it.

Therefore, Alfalfa, Chickpea, and Clover are nitrogen-fixing plants.

geography: Which of the following are nitrogen-fixing plants? 1. Alfalfa 2. Amaranth 3. Chickpea 4. Clover 5. Purslane (Kulfa) 6. S

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