Preferred term

denitrification

Is replaced by

[Henderson's] n. (1) conversion of nitrate to nitrite, and nitrite to molecular nitrogen, leading to the loss of nitrogen from the biosphere. These reactions are carried out by a few genera of anaerobic bacteria. see denitriﬁers; (2) the reduction of nitrates to nitrites and ammonia, as in plant tissues.

http://vocabs.lter-europe.net/EnvThes/USLterCV_142