Abstract: The ultrastructure of the root nodule infecting cell of Elaeagnus mollis Diels and its shapes of the endophyte were observed by light microscope, scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope. The endophyte in the root nodules of Elaeagnus mollis D. has five different developing forms: hyphae, nitrogen fixing vesicles, sporangia, sporangio-spores and bacteroid-like cells. The roles played by the different forms of the endophytes in symbiotic nitrogen fixation arc discussed also.

Key words: Elaeagnus mollis Diels, Eudophyte, Ultrastructure