noun
- a microorganism, especially a bacterium, that breaks down nitrates and nitrites in soil or water, releasing nitrogen gas into the atmosphere
Usage: technical; biology; microbiology
Examples
- Denitrifiers play a crucial role in the nitrogen cycle by converting nitrates back into atmospheric nitrogen.
- Soil denitrifiers can reduce the effectiveness of nitrogen fertilizers in agricultural systems.
- The presence of denitrifiers in wastewater treatment plants helps remove excess nitrogen before discharge.
- Anaerobic conditions favor the growth of denitrifiers in waterlogged soils.
- Scientists study denitrifiers to better understand nutrient cycling in ecosystems.