Ammonifying

/əˈmɒnɪfaɪɪŋ/ adjective

Definition

Engaged in or capable of converting organic nitrogen into ammonia; describing organisms or processes that ammonify.

Etymology

From ammonify plus -ing. This present participle form is used in scientific texts to describe ongoing or characteristic processes of bacteria and decomposition.

Kelly Says

Ammonifying bacteria are constantly working right now—in every handful of soil, they're breaking down dead things and releasing ammonia, making it part of one of Earth's most essential cycles.

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