DN - DENITRIFYING BACTERIA

Denitrifying bacteria indicate the decomposition of waste organic nitrogenous materials. These bacteria reduce nitrate to nitrite and some continue nitrification to gaseous nitrogen (complete denitrification). In water, aggressive denitrifiers can indicate high concentrations of  nitrates, and that the sample is probably anaerobic and relatively rich in organic matter. The presence of denitrifying bacteria can indicate that the water has been polluted by nitrogen-rich organics from sources such as compromised septic tanks, sewage systems, industrial and hazardous waste sites. If highly aggressive bacteria are detected, the water should be tested for the presence of coliform bacteria.