Physiological distinctions of pea symbiotic mutants with various nodulation level under inoculation by Rhizobium leguminosarum

The study was focused on morphological and physiological peculiarities of pea plants with various nodulation ability under the infection by Rhizobium leguminosarum. Microscopic studies identified distinct features in formation of root nodules in different pea mutants. We revealed differences in the content of indole-acetic acid (IAA) in mutants in the root zones differing by sensibility to R. leguminosarum. It was concluded that hormonal system of plants plays an important role in control of nodulation process, and emergence of mutations inducing disturbance of nodule-forming ability apparently depends on root hormonal status, in particular, IAA concentration ensuring both formation of nodule meristem and further organogenesis of the nodule.