Ammonification

Definition

Ammonification is the microbial process of converting organic nitrogen into ammonia (NH3) or ammonium ions (NH4+). It plays a crucial role in the nitrogen cycle by decomposing organic matter.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ammonification is primarily carried out by decomposer microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi.
2. It results from the breakdown of proteins, nucleic acids, and other nitrogen-containing compounds in dead organisms and waste products.
3. The ammonia produced can either be assimilated by plants or further processed in nitrification to produce nitrate.
4. Ammonification helps recycle nitrogen within ecosystems, making it available for primary producers.
5. Environmental factors such as temperature, pH, and oxygen levels affect the rate of ammonification.

Review Questions

• What types of microorganisms are primarily responsible for ammonification?
• How does ammonification contribute to the nitrogen cycle?
• What environmental factors influence the rate of ammonification?

Related terms

Nitrification: The process where ammonia is oxidized to nitrite (NO2-) and then to nitrate (NO3-), mainly by nitrifying bacteria.

Nitrogen Fixation:

The conversion of atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into a form usable by living organisms, typically carried out by certain bacteria.

Denitrification:

The reduction of nitrates back into nitrogen gas (N2), completing the nitrogen cycle, performed by denitrifying bacteria under anaerobic conditions.