Describe the phases of the nitrogen cycle, in the marine environment, starting with the death of a fish.
Could someone help me with this? I just need it explained to me, I've watched and read many articles.. but still do not understand very well
You might find something in this website to help --
https://www.khanacademy.org/science/biology -- including some of these: https://www.google.com/search?q=khanacademy+nitrigen+cycle&rlz=1C5CHFA_enUS705US707&oq=khanacademy+nitrigen+cycle&aqs=chrome..69i57j0.7199j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
Of course! I'd be happy to explain the phases of the nitrogen cycle in the marine environment, starting with the death of a fish.
1. Ammonification: When a fish dies in the marine environment, the first phase of the nitrogen cycle that occurs is ammonification. This is where bacteria and other decomposers break down the fish's organic matter, such as its proteins and nitrogen-containing compounds, into simpler forms. This process releases ammonia (NH3) into the surrounding water.
2. Nitrification: The ammonia released during ammonification is then converted into nitrite (NO2-) by nitrifying bacteria in a process called nitrification. The nitrite is still toxic to many marine organisms.
3. Denitrification: In the next phase of the nitrogen cycle, denitrification occurs. Certain bacteria in oxygen-depleted areas, such as deep sediments or low-oxygen zones, convert nitrite and nitrate (NO3-) into nitrogen gas (N2), which is released into the atmosphere. This step is essential for balancing the nitrogen levels in the marine ecosystem and preventing nitrate accumulation, which can be harmful to marine life.
4. Assimilation: Some nitrogen, in the form of nitrate, is taken up by plants, algae, and other marine organisms in a process called assimilation. These organisms use nitrate to synthesize organic compounds, such as proteins and nucleic acids, which are vital for growth and reproduction.
5. Mineralization: Over time, when marine organisms die or excrete waste, the organic nitrogen present in their bodies is returned to the environment in the form of ammonia or ammonium (NH4+). This process is known as mineralization and is carried out by the action of decomposers.
6. Absorption and uptake: Finally, the ammonia or ammonium produced during mineralization is absorbed by plants, algae, and other marine organisms, which restarts the nitrogen cycle.
Understanding the phases of the nitrogen cycle in the marine environment can help us comprehend how nitrogen is transformed and recycled to support life in the oceans.