Numerical taxonomy of Sarothamnus scoparius rhizobia

Twenty nodule isolates from Sarothamnus scoparius (broom) growing in Poland and nine strains from plants growing in Japan were studied for phenotypic properties, plasmid presence, phage sensitivity, and host plant specificity . By numerical analysis of phenotypic properties, it was found that the stu died nodule bacteria, originating from geographically different countries, constitute two separate groups affiliated to the bradyrhizobium cluster. Th e membership of S, scoparius rhizobia in the Bradyrhizobium genus was also supported by their long generation time, alkaline reaction in YEM medium wi th mannitol, lack of plasmids, and wide host plant range.