In leguminous plants, there exists a symbotic association between the plant and the bacterium. Choose the correct statement regarding this.

Options

A. The bacteria derive reduce `N_2` from plant
B. The bacteria supply reduced `N_2` to plant and receive sugars from plant
C. The nodule is produced by the plant independent of bacteria
D. The plant growth is inhibited by the factor produced by bacteria

Answer

To solve the question regarding the symbiotic association between leguminous plants and bacteria, we will analyze the statements provided and determine which one is correct based on our understanding of the relationship.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Symbiosis**:
- Leguminous plants form a symbiotic relationship with certain bacteria, primarily those known as diazotrophs. These bacteria have the ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen.

**Hint**: Remember that symbiosis involves mutual benefit for both organisms involved.

2. **Role of Diazotrophs**:
- Diazotrophs possess a special gene called the NIF gene, which is crucial for nitrogen fixation. This gene helps in the conversion of atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into ammonia (NH3), which is a form that plants can utilize.

**Hint**: Focus on the importance of nitrogen fixation in the nitrogen cycle and how it benefits plants.

3. **Formation of Nodules**:
- The bacteria form nodules on the roots of leguminous plants. These nodules are essential for the nitrogen-fixing process, as they provide a suitable environment for the bacteria to thrive and perform nitrogen fixation.

**Hint**: Nodules are a key feature of the symbiotic relationship; think about their function and origin.

4. **Nutrient Exchange**:
- In this symbiotic relationship, the plant provides carbohydrates (sugars) to the bacteria, which serve as an energy source. In return, the bacteria supply ammonia to the plant, which is used for growth and development.

**Hint**: Consider the exchange of nutrients: what does each organism provide to the other?

5. **Evaluating the Statements**:
- **Statement 1**: "The bacterium derives reduced nitrogen from the plant." - This is incorrect. The bacteria provide ammonia to the plant.
- **Statement 2**: "The bacteria supply reduced N2 (ammonia) to the plant and receive sugar from the plant." - This is correct.
- **Statement 3**: "The nodule is produced by the plant independent of bacteria." - This is incorrect; nodules are dependent on the bacteria.
- **Statement 4**: "The plant growth is inhibited." - This is incorrect; the relationship promotes plant growth.

**Hint**: Carefully analyze each statement in terms of the roles of the plant and the bacteria.

6. **Conclusion**:
- The correct statement regarding the symbiotic association between leguminous plants and bacteria is that the bacteria supply reduced nitrogen (ammonia) to the plant and receive sugar from the plant.

### Final Answer:
The correct statement is: "The bacteria supply reduced N2 (ammonia) to the plant and receive sugar from the plant."