Nitrifying Thaumarchaeota can outcompete nitrifying bacteria in acidic environments because Thaumarchaeota
A) are well-adapted to high salinity and extreme UV irradiation.
B) are well-adapted to temperature extremes.
C) are well-adapted to very low NH₃ concentrations.
D) have very resistant specialized cells that survive long periods of dehydration and nutrient starvation.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Thaumarchaeota are better adapted to low NH₃ concentrations and can therefore outcompete nitrifying bacteria in acidic environments where NH₃ concentrations are typically low. They also have a unique enzyme called ammonia monooxygenase that allows them to oxidize ammonia at very low concentrations.

Nitrifying Thaumarchaeota Can Outcompete Nitrifying Bacteria in Acidic Environments Because