The Nostoc-Gunnera symbiosis
B Bergman1, C Johansson1, E Söderbäck1
1Department of Botany, Stockholm University, S-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden.
The New Phytologist
|April 20, 2021
Summary
Gunnera L. plants form a unique symbiosis with nitrogen-fixing Nostoc cyanobacteria, enabling plant independence from soil nitrogen. This review details their complex relationship, focusing on gland development and infection processes.
Area of Science:
- Plant-microbe interactions
- Symbiotic biology
- Nitrogen fixation
Background:
- Gunnera L. engages in a unique symbiosis with Nostoc cyanobacteria.
- This symbiosis provides the plant with nitrogen independence.
- It is the only known angiosperm-cyanobacterial symbiosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an updated review of the Nostoc-Gunnera symbiosis.
- To detail gland development, cyanobacterial function, and infection processes.
- To explore the relationship between symbiotic partners.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing scientific literature.
- Analysis of symbiotic tissue development (gland).
- Examination of cyanobacterium structure and function.
Main Results:
- The symbiosis involves specialized stem glands for cyanobacterial infection.
- Cyanobacteria differentiate high frequencies of heterocysts within Gunnera cells.
- Gunnera exhibits unique geographical distribution and anatomical features.
Conclusions:
- The Nostoc-Gunnera symbiosis is a complex and intimate relationship.
- Understanding this symbiosis offers insights into plant-microbe interactions and nitrogen fixation.
- Further research is needed on the evolutionary and functional aspects.
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