noun
- microorganisms, especially bacteria, that convert ammonia or ammonium compounds into nitrites and nitrates through the process of nitrification
Usage: biology; microbiology
Examples
- Nitrifiers play a crucial role in the nitrogen cycle by oxidizing ammonia in soil.
- The aquarium’s biological filter contains nitrifiers that help maintain water quality.
- Scientists studied the population of nitrifiers in agricultural soils.
- Nitrifiers convert toxic ammonia into less harmful nitrates for plants.
- The wastewater treatment plant relies on nitrifiers to process organic waste.
- Cold temperatures can slow down the activity of nitrifiers in compost piles.