What is the process of ammonification?

The process of ammonification refers specifically to the conversion of organic matter into ammonium. This biological process occurs when microorganisms decompose organic material—such as plant and animal residues—breaking it down and releasing ammonium ions as part of the nutrient cycling in ecosystems. Ammonification plays a crucial role in the nitrogen cycle because it replenishes the pool of nitrogen available in the soil, which can then be used by plants.

In the context of the nitrogen cycle, this process is vital for feeding the ecosystem, as it transforms nitrogen from organic forms back into a usable inorganic form, providing the essential nutrient for the growth of plants. The release of ammonium also prepares the pathway for further processes, such as nitrification, where ammonium can subsequently be converted into nitrates.

Understanding ammonification is key to grasping how nitrogen is recycled and made available, emphasizing the importance of decomposers in nutrient cycling.