Figure 1. Overview of the agricultural soil N cycle.
The organic N and inorganic N cycles are highlighted. DNRA…dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium, DON…dissolved organic N, PON…particulate organic N such as detritus and soil organic matter, SMB…soil microbial biomass. Not shown - heterotrophic nitrification which results from microbial uptake of e.g. free amino acids, oxidation of reduced N compounds and release of nitrate into the soil.