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Nitrates

Nitrogen is a very important element in the growth and survival of plants and animals. It is one of the basic elements found in proteins. Plants have both protein based and non-protein based compounds in them. Some of the non-protein based compounds in them are nitrates, amides, nitrides, peptides and free amino acids.

Decomposition of animal and plants will reduce oxygen levels and increase nitrate levels. Bacteria will help to break down protein molecules into ammonia, which will merge with oxygen to create nitrite and nitrates. Too much nitrates will cause plants to grow faster.

Nitrate levels are also increased due to excessive fertilizer use, septic tank leakages and poor waste water treatment. Normally phosphate levels also increase together with the level of nitrates. Phosphates will cause the growth and decomposition of algae to increase and this will further reduce the level of dissolved oxygen.