Short-cut nitrification in biological aerated filters with modified zeolite and nitrifying sludge

► SCN in zeolite-BAFs with the specific immobilization of AOB. ► Insight into the capability of modified zeolite for the immobilization of AOB. ► Growth kinetics analysis indicated the key factor for SCN. ► The shift in the community of nitrifiers during SCN domestication and immobilization.