Nitrifying Bacteria

Significance
Nitrifying bacteria include the genera Nitrosomonas, Nitrobacter and Nitrosococcus. They are an important group of bacteria that can be used as an indicator for the presence of organic nitrogenous material in water. During the nitrification process, bacteria aerobically oxidize ammonium to nitrite and then further to nitrate. Aggressive nitrifying bacteria can produce high concentrations of nitrates. This could pose a potential health risk, particularly to infants who haven’t developed a tolerance to nitrates. The presence of aggressive nitrifying bacteria in water may indicate contamination from a sewage system, septic tank or industrial waste.

Types of water to be tested include potable water plumbing systems, well water.

Test Method
N-BART™ Biological Activity Reaction Test for Nitrifying Bacteria. Manufacturer: Droycon Bioconcepts Inc. Saskatchewan, Canada

Turn Around Time
5 days

Test Code
112

Sample Transport
See Sampling and Shipping page for instructions.

Accreditations and Proficiency
See Accreditations and Proficiency page for information on our accreditations and Legionella testing proficiency programs.