Azospirillum lipoferum is reported to be associated with the roots of

Correct option is B

✅ (b) maize
· Azospirillum lipoferum is a nitrogen-fixing bacterium that colonizes the rhizosphere of grasses like maize and wheat.
· It enhances plant growth through nitrogen fixation, phytohormone production, and improved root development.
❌ (a) pigeon pea
· Pigeon pea is a legume associated with Rhizobium symbiosis, not Azospirillum.
❌ (c) rice
· While other species like Azospirillum brasilense associate with rice, lipoferum is more specific to maize.
❌ (d) potato
· Potatoes are not significant hosts for Azospirillum colonization.