Average microbial (bacterial and archaeal) community composition of groundwater sampled in Canterbury.

These results were determined by sequencing bacterial and archaeal 16S rRNA phylogenetic marker genes.

Bacteria, particularly Proteobacteria, dominate these groundwaters. Proteobacteria are a large phylum of gram-negative bacteria that have diverse metabolisms and are found within many environments. Numerous members are capable of metabolising and transforming nitrogen.

Facts about Planctomycetes

Some members are capable of anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox), converting bioavailable nitrate and ammonium into N2 gas, which is returned to the atmosphere.

Curious fact

The bacteria that perform anammox produce hydrazine (N2H4) inside a specialized protective cellular compartment called an anammoxosome. Hydrazine, produced industrially, is used in rocket fuel. In anammox bacteria it is produced as a natural part of the anammox process, and is ultimately released from bacterial cells as inert N2 gas.