In previous videos we’ve discussed the nitrogen cycle as the traditional route on nitrogen transformation and thus detoxification. However, there is yet another fate for nitrogen compounds and it is primarily seen in planted aquariums. Ammonia/ammonium and nitrate are nitrogen compounds that aquarium plants will assimilate and use for growth. Nitrogen being a macronutrient, is in high demand in heavily planted aquariums. Plants may absorb ammonia/ammonium, nitrate and in rare case even nitrite. These compounds will be used inside the plant as a precursor for protein synthesis and other vital processes that build components of the plants overall mass.

 

     In this video we highlight the different strategies used by aquariums plants to obtain these nitrogen compounds for growth. It is true that in a heavily planted aquarium one can get away without the use of a filtrations system due to plants and their ability to sequester dangerous nitrogen compounds. This can be a tricky process and in many cases is not the best practice. We will discuss more on this topic in upcoming videos.