ammonia or other nitrogen compounds. These compounds can enter bodies of water through runoff from animal farms or through direct release of animal waste into water sources. In water, these nitrogen compounds can be transformed into nitrate ions through a process called nitrification, which is carried out by nitrifying bacteria. Nitrates are then readily taken up by plants and algae as a nutrient source, leading to excessive growth of these organisms in a process known as eutrophication. This can result in harmful algal blooms, oxygen depletion in water bodies, and negative impacts on aquatic ecosystems. Therefore, proper management of animal waste and prevention of runoff is crucial to minimize nitrogen pollution in bodies of water.
