Sediments From a Seasonally Euxinic Coastal Ecosystem Show High Nitrogen Cycling Potential.

ABSTRACT: Coastal ecosystems are susceptible to eutrophication and deoxygenation, which may alter their nitrogen cycle dynamics. Here, we investigated the microbial nitrogen cycling potential in the sediment of a seasonally euxinic coastal ecosystem (Lake Grevelingen, NL) in winter and summer. Activity tests revealed ammonium (NH₄ ⁺) oxidation potential with maximum potential rates up to 53 μmol g^-1 day^-1, even in anoxic sediment layers. A nitrifying microbial community was present in both oxic and anoxic sediment sections (up to 1.4% relative abundance). Nitrate (NO₃ ^-), nitrite (NO₂ ^-), and nitrous oxide (N₂O) reduction potential were prominent across all sediment sections, with the highest potential

SUBMITTER: Rigutto IML 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12218870 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature