NITRIFYING BACTERIUM Meaning and
Definition
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Nitrifying bacterium refers to a type of microscopic organism that plays a vital role in the nitrogen cycle. These bacteria possess the ability to convert various forms of nitrogen compounds into nitrites and nitrates through a process known as nitrification.
Nitrifying bacteria are divided into two distinct groups: ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) and nitrite-oxidizing bacteria (NOB). AOB are responsible for the initial step in nitrification, where they convert ammonia (NH3) into nitrite (NO2-). This process releases energy, which the bacteria utilize for their growth and reproduction. NOB, on the other hand, convert nitrite into nitrate (NO3-), the final product of nitrification.
These bacteria are commonly found in soil, water, and wastewater treatment systems, where they actively participate in the conversion of nitrogen compounds. Their presence is crucial in maintaining a balanced nitrogen cycle in both natural and engineered environments. Nitrifying bacteria provide an essential service by transforming toxic ammonia, often derived from organic waste or decomposition, into less harmful nitrites and nitrates, which can be consumed by plants or further utilized by other microorganisms.
The activity of nitrifying bacteria is influenced by various environmental factors such as temperature, pH, oxygen availability, and the presence of essential nutrients. Therefore, understanding the biology and ecology of nitrifying bacteria is crucial for managing nitrogen cycles in agricultural practices, waste treatment systems, and environmental conservation efforts.
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A microorganism which oxidizes ammonia to nitrous or nitric acid, or draws the nitrogen from the air and fixes it in the soil where it can be appropriated by growing plants.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for NITRIFYING BACTERIUM
Etymology of NITRIFYING BACTERIUM
The word "nitrifying" comes from the verb "nitrify", which means to convert nitrogen compounds into nitrates or nitrites. The term "nitrify" was formed in the early 19th century from the Latin word "nitrum", meaning nitre or saltpetre, and the suffix "-fy", which means to make or cause.
"Bacterium" comes from the Greek word "baktērion", which means small rod or staff. It was originally used to describe microscopic rod-shaped organisms discovered by Antonie van Leeuwenhoek in the 17th century. The plural form of "bacterium" is "bacteria".
Therefore, the term "nitrifying bacterium" refers to a small rod-shaped organism capable of nitrification, the process of converting nitrogen compounds.
