Question

role of microorganisms in maintaining the nitrogen cycle

Answer 1

owseNotessearch

HOMEWORK HELP > SCIENCE

Describe the role of bacteria in nitrogen cycle.

print Print 

document PDF list Cite

EXPERT ANSWERS

GSENVIRO | CERTIFIED EDUCATOR

There are four main parts of the nitrogen cycle and bacteria play a role in all of them. Bacteria help in nitrogen fixation, either as free-living entities or through symbiotic relationships with animals and plants (such as legumes). Another example is cyanobacteria. Bacteria break down the proteins contained in the bodies of plants and animals into ammonia through the process of decay. The next step in the nitrogen cycle is nitrification, which is carried out (in steps) by two nitrifying bacteria: nitrosomonas and nitrobacter. The former converts ammonia to nitrite, while the latter converts nitrite to nitrates. The final step is denitrification, which breaks down nitrates into nitrogen and replenishes the atmosphere. This step is carried out by denitrifying bacteria, such as anammox or ammonia oxidizing bacteria. 

Thus, bacteria are key to nitrogen cycle.

Answer 2

The intriguing bacteria in root nodules of leguminous plants play a key role in nitrogen cycle. They pick up free nitrogen from soil and convert it into insoluble nitrates. These nitrates are used by the host plant and also by other plants sown later in the soil.The nitrates are replenished in the soil by bacteria through the process of notification.
Hope you have now definitely understood the solution.
Please don't forget to mark this answer as brainliest.