What is the function of Leghemoglobin in nitrogen fixation?

Leghemoglobin plays a crucial role in nitrogen fixation by absorbing oxygen. It is a protein found in the root nodules of leguminous plants that forms a complex with oxygen, similar to the function of hemoglobin in animal blood. By absorbing oxygen, leghemoglobin maintains a low-oxygen environment in the root nodules, which is essential for the nitrogen-fixing enzyme nitrogenase to function effectively. Nitrogenase is sensitive to oxygen and cannot operate efficiently in its presence. By keeping oxygen levels low, leghemoglobin ensures that nitrogenase can fix atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia, which the plant uses for growth. This process is vital for the plant’s nutrition and contributes to soil fertility. Additionally, the presence of leghemoglobin gives the root nodules a red or pink color, indicating active nitrogen fixation.