Four species of the photosynthetic bacteria from 36 samples were isolated. their characteristics, their capability for nitrogen fixation and their capability for purification of organic waste water by photosynthetic bacteria were examined. Photosynthetic bacteria are widely distributed in soil. The isolated species are Rhodopseudomonas capsulatus. R. spheroides, R. gelatinosa, and R. ruburm. The capability for nitrogen fixation varies with the species of photosynthetic bacteria, and it is very pronounced in the R. capsulatus. The capability for purification of organic waste water is relatively strong but varies with the species.