ammoniumionilla

Ammoniumionilla is a genus of bacteria from the family Ionotrichaceae, which belongs to the phylum Bacteroidota. These bacteria are known for their ability to oxidize ammonium to nitrite, a process that plays a crucial role in the nitrogen cycle. The genus was first described in 2017, and it includes several species, such as Ammoniumionilla marina and Ammoniumionilla aquatica.

Ammoniumionilla species are typically found in marine and freshwater environments, where they contribute to the conversion of ammonium, a form of nitrogen that is toxic to many organisms, into nitrite, which is less harmful. This process is facilitated by the enzyme ammonium monooxygenase, which is present in these bacteria.

The metabolic pathways of Ammoniumionilla species are not fully understood, but they are believed to be involved in the oxidation of ammonium to nitrite, as well as the reduction of nitrite to nitrogen gas. This makes them important players in the global nitrogen cycle, which is essential for the growth and survival of many organisms.

Ammoniumionilla species are also of interest to researchers due to their potential applications in bioremediation and waste treatment. Their ability to oxidize ammonium could be harnessed to remove nitrogenous pollutants from water and soil, making them valuable tools in environmental management. However, more research is needed to fully understand their metabolic capabilities and to optimize their use in these applications.