Resumen

GALLEGOS MORALES, Gabriel et al. The sweet clover-Sinorhizobium meliloti system as a useful interaction for nitrogen fixation and as a soil improver. Review. Rev. mex. de cienc. pecuarias [online]. 2024, vol.15, n.1, pp.208-229.  Epub 12-Abr-2024. ISSN 2448-6698.  https://doi.org/10.22319/rmcp.v15i1.6523.

Faced with the challenges posed by the need for fertilizers to maintain agricultural production, a biological process of atmospheric nitrogen fixation occurs naturally, which is carried out by a group of symbiotic bacteria that form a very close association with plants of the legume group, among which is the sweet clover (Melilotus spp.). From an ecological point of view, this plant has an essential function due to its good ability to associate with native nitrogen-fixing bacteria of the genus Sinorhizobium. A fundamental aspect is that this plant species can grow normally in alkaline soils, which doubles its importance since, on the one hand, it fixes nitrogen, and on the other hand, it can be incorporated as green manure. With this, the physicochemical properties of the soil are improved, and the levels of organic matter, which is in extremely poor condition in arid zone areas, are increased. Additionally, this species can withstand low temperatures and grow satisfactorily in winter. This paper presents a synthesis of the genus Melilotus and its symbiont Sinorhizobium meliloti and its importance as a potential natural soil improver.

Palabras llave : Melilotus; Sinorhizobium; Symbiont; Nitrogen; Soil.