What is ammonification?

Ammonification is a biological process in which organic nitrogen compounds, such as proteins and nucleic acids, are converted into ammonia (NH3) or ammonium ions (NH4+) by certain microorganisms called ammonifying bacteria. This process occurs during the decomposition of organic matter, such as dead plants and animals, and the breakdown of nitrogen-containing waste products. Ammonification is an important step in the nitrogen cycle as it releases ammonia, which can be further transformed into other nitrogen compounds by nitrifying bacteria or taken up by plants as a nutrient source.