Hotspot of dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium (DNRA) process in freshwater sediments of riparian zones.

Dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium (DNRA), an important intermediate process in the N-cycle, links N-compound oxidation and reduction processes. Hence, the oxic-anoxic interface would be the hotspot of the DNRA process. In freshwater ecosystems, the riparian zone is the most typical carrier of the oxic-anoxic interface.

Nitrate reduction in the reed rhizosphere of a riparian zone: From functional genes to activity and contribution.

The increased nitrogen (N) fertilizer usage caused substantial nitrate (NO) leaching into groundwater and eutrophication in downstream aquatic systems. Riparian zones positioned as the link interfaces of terrestrial and aquatic environments are effective in NO removal. However, the microbial mechanisms regulating NO reduction in riparian zones are still unclear.