The genes for ribosomal RNA in Rhizobium meliloti and Bradyrhizobium japonicum were analyzed by southern hybridization of BamHI, EcoRI, HindIII digested chromosomal DNA with purified 5' $^{32}P$-labeled 16S and 23S rRNA. The big differences in the hybridization pattern of both rhizobia were found. The comparative results were discussed in relation to the copy number and conservativity of restriction sites in the rRNA genes of both rhizobia.