N2 Fixation by non-heterocystous cyanobacteria1

Abstract

Many, though not all, non-heterocystous cyanobacteria can fix N2. However, very few strains can fix N2 aerobically. Nevertheless, these organisms may make a substantial contribution to the global nitrogen cycle. In this general review, N2 fixation by laboratory cultures and natural populations of non-heterocystous cyanobacteria is considered. The properties and subcellular location of nitrogenase in these organisms is described, as is the response of N2 fixation to environmental factors such as fixed nitrogen, O2 and the pattern of illumination. The integration of N2 fixation with other aspects of cell metabolism (in particular photosynthesis) is also discussed. Similarities and differences between different individual strains of non-heterocystous cyanobacteria are highlighted.