Effect of dilution rate on the biological nitrogen fixation in thePhaseolusvulgaris-Rhizobiumphaseoli symbiosis

Continuous culture was used to produceRhizobiumphaseoli cells at different dilution rates.Phaseolusvulgaris seeds in sterile Leonard jars were then inoculated with the cells produced, and the system was left to interact for six weeks. Dry weight of the plants and number and weight of the nodules were measured. These data were compared to the response obtained with cells produced in batch culture. An increase in plant biomass and nodule weight and number were observed at higher dilution rates.