Nitrogen & Agriculture

Nitrogen (N) is critical for agriculture and is required for plant, animal and soil health. While N exists in the soil in several forms it changes or transforms easily from one form to another. Animals use N to build protein and DNA, while plants need N for chlorophyll in order to achieve maximum growth. Algae in ponds also use N, but their rapid growth can use up all the oxygen in the water.

Farmers apply a lot of N either in the organic (manure, compost) or inorganic (synthetic fertilizer) form. When they harvest the plants the N becomes feed for animals and people.