The nitrogen cycle is a fundamental biogeochemical process in which nitrogen is converted between its various chemical forms, moving through the atmosphere, soil, water, and living organisms. Nitrogen is an essential element for all living beings, as it forms the backbone of amino acids, proteins, nucleic acids, and other vital biomolecules. However, despite its abundance in the atmosphere, most organisms cannot directly utilize atmospheric nitrogen gas (N₂) due to its inert nature. The nitrogen cycle, therefore, facilitates the transformation of nitrogen into biologically accessible forms, ensuring the continuity of life and maintaining ecological balance. The nitrogen cycle consists of several interlinked processes, each mediated by specific microorganisms. Nitrogen fixation is the first crucial step, wherein atmospheric nitrogen is converted into ammonia (NH₃) or ammonium ions (NH₄⁺). This process can occur biologically, through nitrogen-fixing bacteria such as Rhizobium in the root nodules of legumes, or free-living bacteria like Azotobacter in the soil. Abiotic processes, such as lightning and industrial Haber-Bosch methods, can also fix nitrogen, although biological fixation is predominant in natural ecosystems. Nitrogen fixation is vital because it transforms inert nitrogen into a form that plants can assimilate, which subsequently enters the food chain. Following nitrogen fixation, ammonification occurs, where decomposer microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi break down organic nitrogen compounds