Abstract
The influence of soil particles, alginate beads, agar strands and sand on nitrification was studied. Except sand, each substance used caused considerable stimulation of nitrification. Ammonium oxidation was more stimulated than nitrite oxidation. In the presence of soil, alginate beads or agar strands the rate of ammonium oxidation was twice that of the control. The stimulation of ammonium and nitrite oxidation was proportional to the amount of substances added. Cells when embeded in the alginate matrix began to nitrify immediately after addition to the media, otherwise, there was a lag of 24–48 h before nitrification was stimulated. Besides soil particles the two polysaccharides used provided the nitrifying bacteria with an appropriate surface for attachment and shelter. It is concluded that polysaccharides released by microorganisms in the environment especially in the aquatic systems play an important role in the regulation of the nitrification process.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call