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Cycle Chemistry
Denitrification
The anaerobic bacterial process that converts nitrate into harmless nitrogen gas - the final stage of the nitrogen cycle in mature systems.
Unit: process Code: DENITRIFICATION
📖 Overview
Beyond the visible nitrification, mature reef and freshwater tanks develop anaerobic pockets (deep sand beds, live rock interiors) where nitrate is finally converted to nitrogen gas by different bacteria. This is denitrification - it explains why some mature tanks maintain low nitrate without heavy water changes.
❓ Why It Matters
Understanding denitrification lets aquarists design systems for lower maintenance - refugia, deep sand beds, and vodka dosing all target this final stage.