Is nitrification directly affected by major minerals (Ca, Mg, K, Na) concentration in water? Does the nitrifying bacteria need these minerals significantly?
As with all biochemical transformation processes, both macro- and micro-nutrients are required. Macronutrients usually considered are N and P, which are needed in substantial quantity when compared with micronutrients (i.e., elements that are not used by microorganisms as the electron acceptor or donor). Micronutrient (relative mass) requirements are difficult to define and may vary by reaction/bacteria type, but principal inorganic nutrients needed by microorganisms include S, K, Mg, Ca, Fe, Na, Cl. Consideration should also be given to Zn, Mn, Mo, Se, Co, Cu, and Ni.
As with all biochemical transformation processes, both macro- and micro-nutrients are required. Macronutrients usually considered are N and P, which are needed in substantial quantity when compared with micronutrients (i.e., elements that are not used by microorganisms as the electron acceptor or donor). Micronutrient (relative mass) requirements are difficult to define and may vary by reaction/bacteria type, but principal inorganic nutrients needed by microorganisms include S, K, Mg, Ca, Fe, Na, Cl. Consideration should also be given to Zn, Mn, Mo, Se, Co, Cu, and Ni.
The role of redox is quite important, as stated above. The Atacama Desert has huge quantities of nitrogen which have been fixed into mineral form at one of these mixing zones- deep reducing fluids. and surface oxidizing fluids. Similar biological systems exist around deep-sea hydrothermal vents (and their geologic record from the deep past). Trace elements are important, but FOOD (redox food for chemolithotrophes) is essential.
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