1. Legumes: These plants, like peas, beans, and lentils, have a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria called rhizobia. These bacteria live in nodules on the roots of legumes and convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by the plant. As part of this process, some rhizobia bacteria die and decompose within the root nodules, contributing to the decomposition process.
2. Mycorrhizal plants: These plants form a mutually beneficial relationship with fungi. The fungi grow around and sometimes penetrate the plant's roots, forming a network that helps the plant absorb nutrients and water. Some mycorrhizal fungi also host bacteria within their hyphae (filaments), which contribute to the breakdown of organic matter in the soil, releasing nutrients that the plant can then access.
It's important to note that all plants have some bacteria in their roots, but the presence of decomposing bacteria in root nodules or mycorrhizal fungi is specific to these two types of plants.
