Multiple Choice
In most terrestrial ecosystems, which nutrients are most commonly limiting for plant growth?
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35. Soil
Soil and Nutrients
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Which plant is often used as a soil conditioner because it can improve soil fertility through nitrogen fixation?
A
Sunflower (Helianthus annuus)
B
Corn (Zea mays)
C
Wheat (Triticum aestivum)
D
Clover (Trifolium spp.)
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of nitrogen fixation: It is the process by which certain plants convert atmospheric nitrogen (N\_2) into a form usable by plants, such as ammonia (NH\_3). This process enriches the soil with nitrogen, an essential nutrient for plant growth.
Identify which plants have the ability to fix nitrogen: Typically, legumes (plants in the family Fabaceae) have symbiotic relationships with nitrogen-fixing bacteria called Rhizobium in their root nodules.
Review the given options and classify them: Sunflower, corn, and wheat are not legumes and do not fix nitrogen. Clover, however, is a legume and is known for its nitrogen-fixing ability.
Recognize that clover improves soil fertility by adding nitrogen to the soil, making it a common choice as a soil conditioner in crop rotations and cover cropping.
Conclude that the plant often used as a soil conditioner due to its nitrogen fixation capability is clover (Trifolium spp.).
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