Symbiotic interactions between Nostoc punctiforme, a multicellular cyanobacterium, and the hornwort Anthoceros punctatus
Year: 2003
Type: article
Abstract: The filamentous, nitrogen-fixing cyanobacterium Nostoc punctiforme forms a symbiotic association with representatives of three of the major phylogenetic groups of terrestrial plants; bryophyte, gymnosperm and angiosperm.The association with N. punctiforme and the bryophyte hornwort Anthoceros punctatus has been used as a model experimental system to define the continuum of interactions between the partners leading to a stable nitrogen-fixing symbiosis.The symbiotic interactions can be experimentally categorized into an infection stage that involves the differentiation and behavior of motile filaments called hormogonia and a function stage that involves the differentiation and behavior of nitrog_ en fixing cells called heterocysts.The physiological, biochemical and genetic data that support the stages of interaction are described in this review.
Source: DalSpace (Dalhousie University)
Author: John C. Meeks
Language: English
Topic: Lichen and fungal ecology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2248921447