Continuous denitrification experiments were undertaken using marine denitrifying bacteria immobilized in a macro-porous cellulose carrier. The denitrifying capacity of this immobilized system was examined using an ejector-type bioreactor of pH 8.0, 30 degrees C, under anaerobic conditions. In addition, the immobilized denitrifying bacteria were isolated and characterized. The results showed that complete denitrification will not occur unless (i) a phosphorus (g) per NO3-N (g) ratio (P/NO3-N) of 0.029, (ii) 0.01% trace element solution (containing Fe, Mn, Mo, etc.) at 280 g/m(3) NO3-N concentration and (iii) a methanol concentration at 30% more than the theoretical carbon concentration requirement are maintained. Copper enhanced nitrite reduction at an influent Cu (g) per influent NO3-N (g) ratio (Cu/NO3-N) of 0.002. Based on these results, a feeding medium was formulated which not only reduced costs but, more importantly, allowed the maximum NO3-N loading rate of 24.8 kg-N/m(3)-carrier/d (at a NO3-N influent concentration and hydraulic retention time of 500 g/m(3) and 5 h, respectively). This value is comparable to that of freshwater in which a macro-porous cellulose carrier was also employed, indicating the insensitivity of the immobilized denitrifying bacteria to salinity. The morphological and physiological characteristics of the immobilized denitrifying bacteria showed similarities to Hyphomicrobium spp.