Soil taxonomy

Desde inicios del siglo XXI, el territorio chaqueño americano experimenta un cambio ambiental resultado de la creciente deforestación y contaminación a la que se ve sometido, además de sequías, incendios, construcción de nuevas obras de infraestructura y modificaciones socioculturales
Todos estos factores colocan a esta región en una situación que requiere estrategias para mitigar los impactos que pueden presentarse irreversibles en el tiempo, entre las que destaca tener un conocimiento exhaustivo del Suelo donde se desarrollan.
Sin embargo, este inventario de Suelo a pesar de la alta demanda de información, no se ha realizado a escalas ajustadas a las necesidades, debido a la gran extensión del área, la complejidad de la geomorfología, los distintos tipos y uso de suelos, el escaso presupuesto y el limitado personal entrenado.
Por ello, el motivo de esta Tesis Doctoral es modernizar  la metodología de cartografía de suelo basada en el sinergismo entre pedologia y geomorfología,  con mayor uso de Geomática, como teledetección, sistemas de información geográfica, posicionamiento global, modelo de elevación, atributos superficiales, geoestadística y procesamiento de datos para que, en menor tiempo y costo, obtener un mapa de suelo y texto explicativo impreso a la escala de trabajo y en formato digital a escala múltiple que permita una mejor interpretación y mayor aplicación en otras disciplinas.

This study was conducted to determine the detailed soil survey maps and soil classes of the Lower Engiz subbasin of Ondokuzmayıs District in Samsun Province. The study area is located at coordinates 4590000-4598000 N, 250000-258000 E (WGS-84, Zone37, UTMm). The area covered by the study conducted in July 2021 is 4.758 hectares. The average annual temperature is 13.8°C and the total annual precipitation is 717.5 mm. Topography, geology and geomorphic maps of the area and field observations were analyzed and 6 soil profiles were opened in the study area. The results obtained from the analyzes and field observations were evaluated and 6 different soil series were defined. According to the Soil Taxonomy,

Peatlands and Histosols in Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge, West Virginia Mitzy L. Schaney Canaan Valley in West Virginia contains a greater area of peatlands than any other locality in the mid-Atlantic Highlands. Extensive fieldwork focused on peat stratigraphy and pedology, combined with high-resolution radiocarbon dating, was used to evaluate five peatlands within Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge (CVNWR) in the central Appalachian Mountains. One hundred soil cores were profiled and described, 30 with laboratory data, including 52 radiocarbon dates. Calibrated basal peat dates among the five mapped peatlands indicate a late Pleistocene timeframe for the onset of peat genesis, ranging from ~18,600 to ~15,200 cal yr BP. The dates for peat initiation are older than those published previously from other central Appalachian Mountain peatlands. Peat accumulation rates varied from 0.02 mm/yr to 1.34 mm/yr with a mean of 0.14 mm/yr. Results of age-depth profiles show similar trends in peat accumulation: moderately high peat accumulation during the late Pleistocene, below average peat accumulation in the early Holocene, the slowest peat accumulation (if any) during the mid-Holocene, and rapid peat accumulation in the early late Holocene. Very few samples were collected correlating to the last 2,000 years; however, those few suggest a possible decrease in peat accumulation. CVNWR peatlands hold pedomemory of latest Pleistocene and Holocene climatic fluctuations in the central Appalachian Mountains. The field investigation revealed a distinct pattern of organic soil horizons throughout five study peatlands. The anaerobic lower portion of the peat soil profile consists of varied thicknesses of a combination of hemic and sapric soil materials, characteristically layered as a hemic horizon, underlain by a sapric horizon, underlain

The introduction of the “ subaqueous soils ” into the international classification system of the Soil Taxonomy (2010) gives a possibility to soil scientists to use the pedogenetic approach to investigate coastal soils in view of resource protection and valorization. Coastal areas, in fact, are complex and fragile ecosystems whose ecological value is worldwide recognized, but generally highly inhabited and affected by different erosion and pollution phenomena, and flooding problems. The soil science has a great opportunity to contribute to the correct management and protection of coastal soils, by recognizing the value of coastal soils and thus investigating the effect of the water table oscillation and ionic composition to the changes of soil properties and functionality. This work represent a first attempt to describe the soil continuum existing from hydromorphic to subaqueous environment, highlighting the evidence of some pedogenetic processes into subaquatic substrates and demons...

The introduction of the “ subaqueous soils ” into the international classification system of the Soil Taxonomy (2010) gives a possibility to soil scientists to use the pedogenetic approach to investigate coastal soils in view of resource protection and valorization. Coastal areas, in fact, are complex and fragile ecosystems whose ecological value is worldwide recognized, but generally highly inhabited and affected by different erosion and pollution phenomena, and flooding problems. The soil science has a great opportunity to contribute to the correct management and protection of coastal soils, by recognizing the value of coastal soils and thus investigating the effect of the water table oscillation and ionic composition to the changes of soil properties and functionality. This work represent a first attempt to describe the soil continuum existing from hydromorphic to subaqueous environment, highlighting the evidence of some pedogenetic processes into subaquatic substrates and demons...

The use of general descriptive names, registered names, trademarks, service marks, etc. in this publication does not imply, even in the absence of a specific statement, that such names are exempt from the relevant protective laws and regulations and therefore free for general use. While the advice and information in this book are believed to be true and accurate at the date of publication, neither the authors nor the editors nor the publisher can accept any legal responsibility for any errors or omissions that may be made. The publisher makes no warranty, express or implied, with respect to the material contained herein.

The introduction of the “ subaqueous soils ” into the international classification system of the Soil Taxonomy (2010) gives a possibility to soil scientists to use the pedogenetic approach to investigate coastal soils in view of resource protection and valorization. Coastal areas, in fact, are complex and fragile ecosystems whose ecological value is worldwide recognized, but generally highly inhabited and affected by different erosion and pollution phenomena, and flooding problems. The soil science has a great opportunity to contribute to the correct management and protection of coastal soils, by recognizing the value of coastal soils and thus investigating the effect of the water table oscillation and ionic composition to the changes of soil properties and functionality. This work represent a first attempt to describe the soil continuum existing from hydromorphic to subaqueous environment, highlighting the evidence of some pedogenetic processes into subaquatic substrates and demons...

Twenty-nine pedons in eleven locations in the southern half of Finland were described and classified according to the soil taxonomy. All but five of the pedons were located in agricultural land. Mollic, ochric, umbric and histic epipedons, albic, spodic and cambic subsurface horizons were identified and sulfidic materials were found. Cryaquepts prevail in the clayey soils .while Haplocryolls and Dystrocryepts are common in more coarse-textured cultivated soils. Cryosaprists, Haplocryods, Cryopsamments, a CryaquoU, an Eutrocryept and a Sulfaquent also were found.

A number of “black granites” were tested using simulated acidic weathering (H2SO4, HNO3, H2SO4/HNO3 and HCl, at pH = 3,00), freeze resistance and relative loss of brightness. The same plates of these granites remained immersed in each acidic solution over eight weekly cycles. The pH data from residual acid solutions were plotted versus timing of the experimental cycles in XY diagrams for interpretation as log-linear regressions. The global set of data, transcribed in a ternary diagram, shows a distinctive area highlighting the best commercial granites. In addition to these granite coatings, the proposed methodology allows easy and accurate identification of their best performances.

1er. Resumen: Con el objeto de conocer el estado de la compactación de suelos de Guanacaste, se tomaron muestras de áreas agrícolas y ganaderas. Las muestras se analizaron, determinándose el porcentaje de materia orgánica, el pH en H20 y KC1, los ...

Productivity Index (PI) assessment based on Soil Taxonomy is one of the simplest and relatively fixed models, so this model promising to be practical importance for regional scale, but up to now field tests concerning the model's accuracy for perennial crops have not been done. The present study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of IP model application based on Soil Taxonomy for coffee plant, which was manifested in the form of goodness of the correlation between productivity index and the productivity of Robusta coffee. The research was carried out in six locations of coffee plantation spread in Jember and Banyuwangi districts, namely Sidomulyo (smallholder farmer), Rayap-1 and Rayap-2, Tretes, Kampung Tengah, and Gumitir (PTPN XII plantation). In each location, a 1 x 1.5 meter of soil profile was established with a depth of 1 m for soil morphological identification and an analysis of the physical and chemical properties of each soil layer. Analysis of soil properties included soil texture, pH (H2O) and pH (KCl), soil organic-C, cation exchange capacity (CEC), and basic saturation. Based on soil physical and chemical properties of the six research sites, four soil subgroup along with their IP values were obtained, namely Typic Udorthents for Sidomulyo (IP = 6); Typic Dystrudepts for Rayap-2 (IP = 7); Typic Hapludalfs for Rayap-1, Kampung Tengah and Tretes (IP = 10); and Typic Eutrudepts for Gumitir (IP = 11). The results of this study indicated that IP had a very strong positive correlation with productivity of Robusta coffee (r = 0.84) in the form of simple linear model,. the higher the index of planting Robusta coffee productivity increases.

Organic amendments Indicators collected as part of the North American Project to Evaluate Soil Health Measurements. The methods included water stable aggregates using the Cornell Rainfall Simulator (WSA CASH), wet sieved water stable aggregates (WSA ARS), slaking captured and adapted from SLAKES smart-phone image recognition software (STAB 10), and the mean weight diameter of water stable aggregates (MWD). Influence of climate and inherent soil properties at the continental scale were analyzed in addition to method responses to rotation diversity, cash crop count, residue management, organic nutrient amendments, cover crops, and tillage. The four methods were moderately correlated with each other. All methods were sensitive to differences in climate and inherent soil properties between sites, although to different degrees. None measured significant effects from rotation diversity or crop count, but all methods detected significant increases in aggregate stability resulting from reduced tillage. Significant increases or positive trends were observed for all methods in relation to cover cropping, increased residue retention, and organic amendments, except for STAB 10 , which expressed a slightly negative response to organic amendments. Considering these results, no single method was clearly superior and all four are viable options for measuring aggregate stability. Therefore, secondary considerations (e.g., cost, method availability, increased sensitivity to a specific management practice, or minimal within-treatment variability) driven by the needs of the investigator, should determine the most suitable method.

Organic amendments Indicators collected as part of the North American Project to Evaluate Soil Health Measurements. The methods included water stable aggregates using the Cornell Rainfall Simulator (WSA CASH), wet sieved water stable aggregates (WSA ARS), slaking captured and adapted from SLAKES smart-phone image recognition software (STAB 10), and the mean weight diameter of water stable aggregates (MWD). Influence of climate and inherent soil properties at the continental scale were analyzed in addition to method responses to rotation diversity, cash crop count, residue management, organic nutrient amendments, cover crops, and tillage. The four methods were moderately correlated with each other. All methods were sensitive to differences in climate and inherent soil properties between sites, although to different degrees. None measured significant effects from rotation diversity or crop count, but all methods detected significant increases in aggregate stability resulting from reduced tillage. Significant increases or positive trends were observed for all methods in relation to cover cropping, increased residue retention, and organic amendments, except for STAB 10 , which expressed a slightly negative response to organic amendments. Considering these results, no single method was clearly superior and all four are viable options for measuring aggregate stability. Therefore, secondary considerations (e.g., cost, method availability, increased sensitivity to a specific management practice, or minimal within-treatment variability) driven by the needs of the investigator, should determine the most suitable method.

Earth observation and monitoring of soil quality, long term changes of soil characteristics and deterioration processes such as degradation or desertification are among the most important objectives of remote sensing. The georeferenciation of such information contributes to the development and progress of the Digital Earth project in the framework of the information globalization process. Earth observation and soil quality monitoring via remote sensing are mostly based on the use of satellite spectral data. Advanced techniques are available to predict the soil or land use/cover categories from satellite imagery data. Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) are among the most widely used tools for modeling and prediction purposes in various fields of science. The assessment of satellite image quality and suitability for analysing the soil conditions (e.g., soil classification, land use/cover estimation, etc.) is fundamental. In this paper, methodology for data screening and subsequent application of ANNs in remote sensing is presented. The first stage is achieved

Resumo: A expansão das áreas irrigadas no semiárido acarreta sérios problemas de degradação dos solos, principalmente de salinização, reduzindo a capacidade produtiva das culturas. A compreensão de aspectos pedológicos é fundamental durante o manejo dessas áreas. Objetivou-se com esse trabalho a caracterização do solo de uma área irrigada visando a preservação da qualidade dos solos nos perímetros irrigados. Foi selecionado um perfil representativo da área do Capoeira, no município de São José do Bonfim, mesorregião do Sertão Paraibano, microrregião de Patos, Bacia Hidrográfica do Rio Piranhas, Semiárido do Estado da Paraíba, Bioma Caatinga. O perfil na profundidade de 118 cm foi descrito em campo, em seguida, foram coletadas amostras para a realização das análises morfológicas, físicas, químicas e mineralógicas de cada horizonte. O solo foi classificado como CAMBISSOLO HÁPLICO Sálico sódico, com sequência de horizonte Ap, AB, Bi, BC e 2C com predominância de textura franco arenosa. A análise da fertilidade, ao longo do perfil, revelou valores de pH variando de 5,3 a 8,0, saturação por sódio de 16 a65% e teores de P (1,8-11,9 mg kg-1), Ca (3,1-5,0), Mg (1,3-5,1), K (0,06-0,09), Na (1,51-39,25) cmol c dm-3 , respectivamente, enquanto no extrato de saturação os valores de condutividade elétrica, PST e RAS foram de 9,3-47dSm-1 , 40-69 e 47-153. O caráter sódico não é contemplado na atual versão do sistema como subgrupo. Dessa forma, pelos resultados, propõe-se a inclusão de um subgrupo sódico dentro da classe dos CAMBISSOLOS.

In the Southeastern region of Buenos Aires province, soybean monoculture has led to a decline in soil organic matter (SOM) levels in soil, mostly the labile fractions. The reduction of SOM has a negative impact on the soil environment. Cover crops (CC) constitute an alternative to maintain or improve SOM levels. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of oat as CC on (a) the SOM dynamics and (b) the availability of macro-and micronutrients in a representative soil of the Southeastern region of Buenos Aires province. Total organic carbon (TOC) and nitrogen (TON), as well as their labile and mineral-associated fractions, and macro-and micronutrient availability were determined. The treatments were soybean monoculture with and without oat as cover crop. The increases in SOC and TON were 22.7% and 11%, respectively, when CC was included to the soybean monoculture. These increases were observed mostly in the labile fractions, with increases of 61.3 and 38.7% for the particulate coarse organic carbon (PCOf) and particulate fine organic carbon (PCOf), respectively, and 79.2% for the particulate coarse organic nitrogen (NOPg). Regarding the nutrients, an increase of 47.6% was observed in manganese (Mn) in the first 5 cm of soil depth, and a decrease in phosphorous (P) availability in the same soil layer due to its consumption and retention by CC. It can be conclude that CC presented a surface soil effect on the dynamic of SOM, increasing C, N, and available Mn contents, but decreasing soil P availability.

Kansainvälisen tutkimusyhteistyön lisääntyminen on synnyttänyt tarpeen nimetä suomalaisia maita maannosten luokitteluun kehitettyjen kansainvälisten järjestelmien mukaan. Tällaisia järjestelmiä ovat amerikkalaisperäinen Soil Taxonomy -järjestelmä, FAOn/Unescon luokitus ja vastikään julkaistu World Reference Base for Soil Resources (WRB) -järjestelmä. Tässä julkaisussa kerrotaan näiden luokitusjärjestelmien periaatteista ja käytetään niitä 28 suomalaisen viljelymaan nimeämiseen. Maaprofiilit tutkittiin 1,0-1,5 metrin syvyyteen saakka. Maassa esiintyvät horisontit tunnistettiin, niiden rakenne, värit, juurten esiintyminen ja muut morfologiset ominaisuudet luonnehdittiin ja kustakin horisontista tehtiin määrityksiä laboratoriossa. Julkaisu sisältää myös valokuvan useimmista maaprofiileista. Vaikka Suomen maaperä on melko nuorta (alle 10 000 vuotta), siinä esiintyy monenlaisia maannostumisen synnyttämiä ominaisuuksia. Kuivatuksen ansiosta viljelymaahan on usein kehittynyt rakenne ojitus...

Little has been studied on genesis and properties of soils in Western Ethiopia. This study was conducted to understand the pedogenesis, and to classify benchmark soils in Didessa watershed along a toposequence. The six soil profiles are representative of low, mid and highland positions within an elevation range from 1273 to 2700 meters above sea level along a 53-km long transect. Their pedological processes, soil properties and classification are discussed in context of soil forming factors and sustainable soil use. Melanization, cheluviation (chelation) of organo-mineral substances, oxidation of iron and leaching of iron compounds and basic cations, clay translocation, de-alkalization, and acidification were major pedological processes at the upland soils while erosion took place at shoulder positions. Calcification and pedoturbation (vertization) were major pedological processes in the lowland and melanization was also observed there. The surface horizons of these very deep soils had a loamy texture while the subsurface horizons were clayey. Leaching of basic cations increased with elevation. The U.S. Soil Taxonomy classification identified a soil sequence consisting of Typic Hapludults, Typic Ferrudalfs, Typic Rhodudalfs and Typic Hapluderts while the World Reference Base classified the corresponding soils as Ferric Rhodic Alisols, Ferric Rhodic Luvisols, Ferric Chromic Luvisols, and Calcic Pellic Vertisols. Numerical hierarchical cluster analysis identified similar and dissimilar horizons in the soil catena. Ultisols were developed on tertiary basalt at midland, Alfisols were developed on tertiary basalts and granitic gneisses at midland and highland, and Vertisols were developed on alluvium and colluvium at lowland. The relief characteristics, lithologic units, agro-ecology and land use covered by the current study are typical of much of the Western and Southwestern Ethiopia. The study indicated that Didessa toposequence has three soil orders (reference groups) that need different management requirements for sustainable soil use. Thus, the transect serves as a model of soil development and soil management in humid Western Ethiopia.

In order to place acid sulphate soils (a.s. soils) of Finland in an international context, five pedons from cultivated a.s. soils from Liminka, Ylistaro and Laitila on the western coast of Finland were analyzed and classified according to Soil Taxonomy and the revised legend of the FAO/Unesco Soil Map of the World. Three of the pedons (Liminka 1 and 2, Laitila 1) had sulfuric horizons within 50 cm of soil surface and qualify as Typic Sulfaquepts. One pedon (Ylistaro) had a sulfuric horizon at the depth of 100-150 cm and was classified as a Sulfic Cryaquept. The fifth pedon (Laitila 2) did not have either a sulfuric horizon or sulfidic materials, but it had a pH

Se realizó la caracterización morfológica, química y la clasificación taxonómica de algunos suelos cultivados con banano en las 11 cuencas hidrográficas que confluyen en las llanuras aluviales de la Vertiente Caribe de Costa Rica. Se identificaron 2 sectores con suelos que tienen propiedades morfológicas, químicas, y taxonómicas diferentes. En una zona, se encontraron principalmente Inceptisoles formados a partir de materiales fluvio-volcánicos con propiedades ándicas (Andic Eutrudepts, Aquandic Endoaquepts), Inceptisoles dístricos (Fluventic Dystrudepts) y Andisoles (Typic Hapludands); caracterizados por presentar la mayoría buen drenaje, texturas medias (franco arenosa, franca, franca limosa), una suma de bases entre 10 y 19 cmol.l?1, una CIC entre 13 y 28 cmol.l?1 y carga permanente en la arcillas. En la otra zona, se encontraron principalmente Inceptisoles formados a partir de aluviones de origen sedimentario depositados por inundaciones frecuentes (Fluventic Endoaquepts, Dystri...

A number of “black granites” were tested using simulated acidic weathering (H2SO4, HNO3, H2SO4/HNO3 and HCl, at pH = 3,00), freeze resistance and relative loss of brightness. The same plates of these granites remained immersed in each acidic solution over eight weekly cycles. The pH data from residual acid solutions were plotted versus timing of the experimental cycles in XY diagrams for interpretation as log-linear regressions. The global set of data, transcribed in a ternary diagram, shows a distinctive area highlighting the best commercial granites. In addition to these granite coatings, the proposed methodology allows easy and accurate identification of their best performances.

The formation and classification of soils have been a key area of research in the soil science discipline. Major breakthroughs have been brought about since the mid 1800s and it has evolved from conceptual frameworks, to descriptive studies to more quantitative approaches. Some 50 years ago the American soil scientists Stan Buol and Francis Hole hatched idea for the book Soil Genesis and Classification. Now six editions of the book have been published and it has become a standard text book in teaching soil science and pedology in the USA. Over 50,000 copies have been sold and this paper reviews how the book evolved over time, and relates the text to trends and developments in soil formation and soil classification.

The use of general descriptive names, registered names, trademarks, service marks, etc. in this publication does not imply, even in the absence of a specific statement, that such names are exempt from the relevant protective laws and regulations and therefore free for general use. While the advice and information in this book are believed to be true and accurate at the date of publication, neither the authors nor the editors nor the publisher can accept any legal responsibility for any errors or omissions that may be made. The publisher makes no warranty, express or implied, with respect to the material contained herein.

A diverse range of acid sulphate soils occur in Negara Brunei Darussalam on the inland flat areas that are important agricultural lands. Prior to this study, there was no information on their occurrence. Information about these soils is critical because they present significant management challenges for both agriculture and protection of the environment. Field surveys and laboratory analysis conducted in eight areas of the Brunei-Muara district and four areas of the Belait district identified, characterized and classified using Soil Taxonomy, a wide range of 10 acid sulphate soil types in four soil orders: Histosols, Vertisols, Inceptisols and Entisols. A user-friendly soil identification key using easily observed soil characteristics was developed to assist users with the recognition of the range of acid sulphate soils. Conceptual soil hydro-toposequence models in the form of cross-sections were constructed to explain the spatial heterogeneity of (i) acid sulphate soil properties comprising a range of features (e.g. organic-rich materials/peats, clays, sands, cracks and jarosite-rich mottles), sulphidic material and sulphuric horizons, (ii) pyrite shale outcrops and (iii) soil types using both the soil identification key and Soil Taxonomy. The soil hydro-toposequence models together with the soil identification key helped to easily visualize and illustrate the complexities and importance of understanding specific sites to assess the detailed behaviour and implications of various soil, regolith and topographic features.

The Iowa Corn Suitability Rating (CSR2) is a soil productivity rating system used primarily for taxation purposes on cropland in Iowa and is derived from its original version “CSR.” CSR2 was created using seven transparent parameters that allow for efficient calculation.

Soils vary widely in mineral nutrient availability and physical characteristics, but the influence of this variability on plant responses to elevated CO2 remains poorly understood. As a first approximation of the effect of global soil variability on plant growth response to CO2, we evaluated the effect of CO2 on tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea) grown in soils representing 10 of the 12 global soil orders plus a high-fertility control. Plants were grown in small pots in continuously stirred reactor tanks in a greenhouse. Elevated CO2 (800 ppm) increased plant biomass in the high-fertility control and in two of the more fertile soils. Elevated CO2 had variable effects on foliar mineral concentration-nitrogen was not altered by elevated CO2, and phosphorus and potassium were only affected by CO2 in a small number of soils. While leaf photosynthesis was stimulated by elevated CO2 in six soils, canopy photosynthesis was not stimulated. Four principle components were identified; the first...

Se realizó la caracterización morfológica, química y la clasificación taxonómica de algunos suelos cultivados con banano en las 11 cuencas hidrográficas que confluyen en las llanuras aluviales de la Vertiente Caribe de Costa Rica. Se identificaron 2 sectores con suelos que tienen propiedades morfológicas, químicas, y taxonómicas diferentes. En una zona, se encontraron principalmente Inceptisoles formados a partir de materiales fluvio-volcánicos con propiedades ándicas (Andic Eutrudepts, Aquandic Endoaquepts), Inceptisoles dístricos (Fluventic Dystrudepts) y Andisoles (Typic Hapludands); caracterizados por presentar la mayoría buen drenaje, texturas medias (franco arenosa, franca, franca limosa), una suma de bases entre 10 y 19 cmol.l?1, una CIC entre 13 y 28 cmol.l?1 y carga permanente en la arcillas. En la otra zona, se encontraron principalmente Inceptisoles formados a partir de aluviones de origen sedimentario depositados por inundaciones frecuentes (Fluventic Endoaquepts, Dystri...

The introduction of the “ subaqueous soils ” into the international classification system of the Soil Taxonomy (2010) gives a possibility to soil scientists to use the pedogenetic approach to investigate coastal soils in view of resource protection and valorization. Coastal areas, in fact, are complex and fragile ecosystems whose ecological value is worldwide recognized, but generally highly inhabited and affected by different erosion and pollution phenomena, and flooding problems. The soil science has a great opportunity to contribute to the correct management and protection of coastal soils, by recognizing the value of coastal soils and thus investigating the effect of the water table oscillation and ionic composition to the changes of soil properties and functionality. This work represent a first attempt to describe the soil continuum existing from hydromorphic to subaqueous environment, highlighting the evidence of some pedogenetic processes into subaquatic substrates and demons...

Soil information has been a ubiquitous requirement for decision aids that provide site-specific information. The introduction and development of decision aids as tools to help develop recommendations and prescriptions for soil management have called further attention to the importance of soil information. To be able to identify soils in the field became particularly useful with the development of a site-specific nutrient management decision aid. A simplified visual and field-oriented decision tree was developed to identify the major maize soil series. The system was valuable as a way to index and retrieve soil information for a decision aid designed to determine how much nutrient and fertilizer would be needed to restore nutrient sufficiency in upland soils planted to maize (SimCorn). This system to field-identify already mapped soil series was easily learned by farmers and was taught to other farmers by farmer leaders. A validation study indicated that farmers using the system achieved 80% to 100% correct soil series identification. The soil series identification system permits semiliterate and illiterate people to compare, contrast, and exchange experiences with neighbors or farmers in adjacent provinces using soil series mapped by expert soil scientists. In effect, the procedure provides a language for farmers to access, share, and expand their experiential knowledge of soils and soil behavior, which leads to more informed management and empowers farmers and producers with new information and interest in a resource critical for their livelihood.

In the highly fertile and productive soils of the Pampa Region of Argentina, constraints on soil water regime as a consequence of the decline in aggregates stability and the development of platy structures, are observed. Most of agricultural plots in this region, even under no tillage, are subjected to simplification of crop sequences (low cropping intensity) with predominance of soybean. On the contrary, some farmers are intensifying the crops sequence to avoid soil degradation and equilibrate economical incomes. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effects of intrinsic soil factors and of cropping intensity on aggregates stability in the surface horizon of the main soils in this region. Three Mollisols (an Entic Haplustoll and two Typic Argiudolls) and a Vertisol (Hapludert) located across a west-east transect in the northern part of the Argentinean Pampas were selected for this study. In each site two management treatments under no-till (GAP: Good Agricultural Practices -high cropping intensityand PAP: Poor Agricultural Practices -low cropping intensity-) and a soil without cultivation as a reference (NE: Natural Environment) were compared. In each treatment, aggregates destruction mechanisms were assessed by Le Bissonnais (1996) tests: slaking, microcraking and cohesion loss. Mollisols showed higher aggregates stability than the Vertisol. Differences on aggregates stability depended on management variables and on organic carbon contents in the Mollisols and on both clay content-clay type in the Vertisol, revealing a strong relationship of aggregation mechanisms with soils taxonomic order. In the Mollisols, the labile coarse particulate organic carbon fraction (POCc) determined the shifts on slaking and overall aggregates stability rather than other carbon fractions. In the soils studied, aggregates stability was linked mainly to management variables, best reflected by the cropping intensity index (CI). More intensive agricultural managements (GAP treatments) in Mollisols and Vertisol, resulted in an enhancement of aggregates stability; however, this relationship was stronger in the Mollisols. Surface horizons from both soil orders evidenced a high soil fragility related to slaking process (FW 10s and FW tests). Thus, FW test was the best test to discriminate between management treatments. The results obtained in this work allow, on the one hand, to understand the stabilization mechanisms of the structure in the surface horizon of the main Pampas soils and, on the other hand, to highlight the effect of different NT management practice on soil aggregate stability, which highly affects soil health and the sustainability of agricultural systems.

Soils vary widely in mineral nutrient availability and physical characteristics, but the influence of this variability on plant responses to elevated CO2 remains poorly understood. As a first approximation of the effect of global soil variability on plant growth response to CO2, we evaluated the effect of CO2 on tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea) grown in soils representing 10 of the 12 global soil orders plus a high-fertility control. Plants were grown in small pots in continuously stirred reactor tanks in a greenhouse. Elevated CO2 (800 ppm) increased plant biomass in the high-fertility control and in two of the more fertile soils. Elevated CO2 had variable effects on foliar mineral concentration-nitrogen was not altered by elevated CO2, and phosphorus and potassium were only affected by CO2 in a small number of soils. While leaf photosynthesis was stimulated by elevated CO2 in six soils, canopy photosynthesis was not stimulated. Four principle components were identified; the first...

This work was carried out in collaboration between authors AAG and AEZ. Both authors participated equally in the study idea, literature review, data collection and analyses, methodology, statistical analyses, tabulating the data, results validation, writing and revising the whole manuscript.

Earth observation and monitoring of soil quality, long term changes of soil characteristics and deterioration processes such as degradation or desertification are among the most important objectives of remote sensing. The georeferenciation of such information contributes to the development and progress of the Digital Earth project in the framework of the information globalization process. Earth observation and soil quality monitoring via remote sensing are mostly based on the use of satellite spectral data. Advanced techniques are available to predict the soil or land use/cover categories from satellite imagery data. Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) are among the most widely used tools for modeling and prediction purposes in various fields of science. The assessment of satellite image quality and suitability for analysing the soil conditions (e.g., soil classification, land use/cover estimation, etc.) is fundamental. In this paper, methodology for data screening and subsequent application of ANNs in remote sensing is presented. The first stage is achieved

Tarnocai, C. and Bockheim, J. G. 2011. Cryosolic soils of Canada: Genesis, distribution, and classification. Can. J. Soil. Sci. 91: 749–762. Cryosols are permafrost-affected soils whose genesis is dominated by cryogenic processes, resulting in unique macromorphologies, micromorphologies, thermal characteristics, and physical and chemical properties. In addition, these soils are carbon sinks, storing high amounts of organic carbon collected for thousands of years. In the Canadian soil classification, the Cryosolic Order includes mineral and organic soils that have both cryogenic properties and permafrost within 1 or 2 m of the soil surface. This soil order is divided into Turbic, Static and Organic great groups on the basis of the soil materials (mineral or organic), cryogenic properties and depth to permafrost. The great groups are subdivided into subgroups on the basis of soil development and the resulting diagnostic soil horizons. Cryosols are commonly associated with the presence...

In the highly fertile and productive soils of the Pampa Region of Argentina, constraints on soil water regime as a consequence of the decline in aggregates stability and the development of platy structures, are observed. Most of agricultural plots in this region, even under no tillage, are subjected to simplification of crop sequences (low cropping intensity) with predominance of soybean. On the contrary, some farmers are intensifying the crops sequence to avoid soil degradation and equilibrate economical incomes. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effects of intrinsic soil factors and of cropping intensity on aggregates stability in the surface horizon of the main soils in this region. Three Mollisols (an Entic Haplustoll and two Typic Argiudolls) and a Vertisol (Hapludert) located across a west-east transect in the northern part of the Argentinean Pampas were selected for this study. In each site two management treatments under no-till (GAP: Good Agricultural Practices –high...

This work was carried out in collaboration between all authors. Author JAG designed the study, performed the statistical analysis, wrote the protocol and wrote the first draft of the manuscript. Authors MD and JMM managed the soil sampling and the chemical analyses of the study. Authors VM and RB managed the FT-IR analyses. Author JMGM managed quality of humic substances interpretation. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.

Soils vary widely in mineral nutrient availability and physical characteristics, but the influence of this variability on plant responses to elevated CO2 remains poorly understood. As a first approximation of the effect of global soil variability on plant growth response to CO2, we evaluated the effect of CO2 on tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea) grown in soils representing 10 of the 12 global soil orders plus a high-fertility control. Plants were grown in small pots in continuously stirred reactor tanks in a greenhouse. Elevated CO2 (800 ppm) increased plant biomass in the high-fertility control and in two of the more fertile soils. Elevated CO2 had variable effects on foliar mineral concentration-nitrogen was not altered by elevated CO2, and phosphorus and potassium were only affected by CO2 in a small number of soils. While leaf photosynthesis was stimulated by elevated CO2 in six soils, canopy photosynthesis was not stimulated. Four principle components were identified; the first...

Earth observation and monitoring of soil quality, long term changes of soil characteristics and deterioration processes such as degradation or desertification are among the most important objectives of remote sensing. The georeferenciation of such information contributes to the development and progress of the Digital Earth project in the framework of the information globalization process. Earth observation and soil quality monitoring via remote sensing are mostly based on the use of satellite spectral data. Advanced techniques are available to predict the soil or land use/cover categories from satellite imagery data. Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) are among the most widely used tools for modeling and prediction purposes in various fields of science. The assessment of satellite image quality and suitability for analysing the soil conditions (e.g., soil classification, land use/cover estimation, etc.) is fundamental. In this paper, methodology for data screening and subsequent application of ANNs in remote sensing is presented. The first stage is achieved

Effect of Geophila macropoda (Rubiaceae) as " weed cover " on hydric erosion in banana plantations, Guápiles , Limón , Costa Rica. The establishment of banana companies in Costa Rica brought employment and infrastructure improvements, but also social problems, destruction of forests, soil erosion and pollution of rivers and streams. Erosion in banana plantations may be diminished with plant cover. Here we analyze the effect of the plant Geophila macropoda on erosion caused by water in Guápiles, Costa Rica. We chose three soil classes I, II and III with and without G. macropoda. Between June and August 2012 periodic measurements were performed once a week, covering periods of low, medium and high rainfall. We found that erosion increases with precipitation and that cover with this plant reduces erosion in all soil types.