The fate of atmospheric ammonia is largely a function of global location and weather conditions. Ammonia often serves as the primary or secondary source of nitrogen for plant life. As an example of state criteria, see the state of Missouri criteria specifically for coldwater and warmwater fish which thus differ from the EPA criteria somewhat. State of Mississippi Criteria Table 6. The ammonia molecule is a nutrient required for life.
Ammonia is an irritant that often affects the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs.
Ammonia levels in excess of the recommended limits may harm aquatic life. Fish may suffer a loss of equilibrium, hyperexcitability, increased respiratory activity and oxygen uptake, and increased heart rate. At extreme ammonia levels, fish may experience convulsions, coma, and death. Slightly elevated ammonia levels falling within the acceptable range may adversely impact aquatic life. Bacteria produce ammonia during decomposition of proteins and other nitrogenous organic substances in the water and benthic sediments.