To minimise the use of nitrogenous fertilizers in the crop fields, nif gene from Rhizobium melioleti is being transferred into :q

Options

A. Oil seed crops
B. Pulses
C. Careals
D. Sugarcane

Answer

To minimize the use of nitrogenous fertilizers in crop fields, the nif gene from Rhizobium meliloti is being transferred into pulses. Here’s a step-by-step explanation:

### Step 1: Understanding the Nif Gene
- The nif gene is a group of genes that encode enzymes responsible for nitrogen fixation. Nitrogen fixation is the process of converting atmospheric nitrogen (N₂) into a form that can be utilized by plants, such as ammonia (NH₃).

### Step 2: Importance of Nitrogen Fixation
- Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for plants, and it is often supplied through nitrogenous fertilizers. However, excessive use of these fertilizers can lead to environmental issues. Therefore, finding alternative methods to provide nitrogen to crops is crucial.

### Step 3: Selecting the Right Crop
- Among the options provided (oil seed crops, pulses, cereals, and sugarcane), pulses are known for their ability to form symbiotic relationships with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, such as Rhizobium. This makes them an ideal candidate for the transfer of the nif gene.

### Step 4: Transferring the Nif Gene
- By transferring the nif gene from Rhizobium meliloti into pulses, these plants can gain the ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen themselves. This reduces the need for nitrogenous fertilizers in their cultivation.

### Step 5: Conclusion
- Therefore, the correct answer to the question is that the nif gene from Rhizobium meliloti is being transferred into **pulses** to minimize the use of nitrogenous fertilizers in crop fields.