What type of microorganism can utilize nitrate as a source of oxygen?

Facultative bacteria are microorganisms that can switch between aerobic and anaerobic metabolism depending on the availability of oxygen. When oxygen is scarce, they can utilize nitrate as an electron acceptor in a process called denitrification. This allows them to survive and thrive in various environments, particularly in wastewater treatment processes where oxygen levels may fluctuate.

This versatility is crucial for effective wastewater treatment, as it helps reduce nitrogen levels and thus the environmental impact of effluents. While aerobic bacteria primarily need free oxygen to metabolize and cannot use nitrate for respiration, facultative bacteria can adapt to different conditions, making them important for nutrient removal in treatment systems.