EFFECT OF FLOODING ON MICROBIAL ACTIVITIES IN ORGANIC SOILS

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Abstract
Variation in potential denitrification rate, denitrifying bacteria, nitrifiers and inorganic N was measured in Pahokee muck (a Lithic medisaprist) during flooding. The denitrification rate increased immediately upon flooding. A maximum rate of 18 .mu.g N/cm3 per day was measured. Denitrifying bacteria increased 15-fold during the first 2 days of flooding. The population was maintained at the higher level for at least 10 days before it began to decline. Nitrate concentrations decreased about 80% during the first 3 days of flooding. No further change was detected until the field was drained. The nitrate level then increased to the preflood levels. Ammonium concentrations increased 5-fold during flooding. No significant variation in nitrifier populations was detected during flooding. Flooding of Pahokee muck is a good method of nitrate removal from the soil and, subsequently, from drainage waters.