Nitrosococcus

bacteria

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July 1, 2026

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Nitrosococcus is a genus of bacteria that plays a crucial role in the nitrogen cycle. These microorganisms are a type of nitrifying bacterium, meaning they obtain energy by oxidizing inorganic chemicals. Specifically, Nitrosococcus converts ammonia into nitrites. This process is vital because nitrites are then further converted into nitrates by other bacteria, and nitrates are the form of nitrogen that plants can readily use. Nitrosococcus bacteria are typically found in saline environments, such as oceans and salt lakes.12

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nitrifying bacterium
to nitrites (Nitrosomonas, Nitrosospira, Nitrosococcus, and Nitrosolobus) and bacteria that convert nitrites (toxic to plants) to nitrates (Nitrobacter, Nitrospina, and Nitrococcus). In agriculture, irrigation with dilute solutions of ammonia results in an increase in soil nitrates through the action of nitrifying bacteria.
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to nitrites (Nitrosomonas, Nitrosospira, Nitrosococcus, and Nitrosolobus) and bacteria that convert nitrites (toxic to plants) to nitrates (Nitrobacter, Nitrospina, and Nitrococcus). In agriculture, irrigation with dilute solutions of ammonia results in an increase in soil nitrates through the action of nitrifying bacteria.
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