What is the biological process that converts ammonia to nitrate?

Nitrification is the biological process that converts ammonia into nitrate, and it involves two main steps. In the first step, ammonia-oxidizing bacteria convert ammonia into nitrite. This nitrite is then further oxidized to nitrate by nitrate-oxidizing bacteria. The significance of nitrification lies in its role in the nitrogen cycle, which is crucial for maintaining aquatic ecosystem health.

This process is particularly important in aquaculture systems, where excess ammonia can be toxic to fish and other aquatic organisms. By converting ammonia to nitrate, which is less harmful, the system helps to manage waste and maintain water quality. The presence of adequate nitrifying bacteria is essential for the efficient functioning of biofilters in aquaculture settings.

The other processes listed do not pertain to the conversion of ammonia to nitrate. Denitrification involves the conversion of nitrate to nitrogen gas, thus removing it from the aquatic environment. Ammonification refers to the conversion of organic nitrogen (from dead organisms and waste) into ammonia. Detoxification generally refers to processes that neutralize or eliminate toxins but is not specifically related to nitrogen transformation in this context.