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A Lithosequence in Coastal Plain Sediments in Alabama
Author(s) -
Hoyum R. A.,
Hajek B. F.
Publication year - 1979
Publication title -
soil science society of america journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.836
H-Index - 168
eISSN - 1435-0661
pISSN - 0361-5995
DOI - 10.2136/sssaj1979.03615995004300010029x
Subject(s) - soil water , loam , geology , outcrop , stratum , clay minerals , coastal plain , geochemistry , mineralogy , soil science , geotechnical engineering , paleontology
A lithosequence was used to explain the morphology and genesis of soils from the Tuscahoma Sand Formation in Crenshaw County, Alabama. Position‐slope‐geology computer displays were used for sampling and determining the distribution and extent of soils in the analysis area. The Tuscahoma Sand Formation has a locally distinctive topography and suite of soils that are closely related to the characteristics of three outcrop beds on 8–12% side‐slopes. The lower stratum, exposed farthest inland, is dominated by clayey soils. In argillic horizons the CEC ranges from 5.4 to 17.2 meq/100 g even though smectites dominate in one profile. Fine‐loamy soils with siliceous mineralogy dominate the middle stratum. The youngest sediments, superpositioned above the middle stratum, are clayey with mixed mineralogy. The pH of argillic horizons ranged from 4.9 to 5.2. All clayey soils were Hapludults while the fine‐loamy soils are now classified Paleudults; however, morphological properties suggest that all soils studied may be Hapludults. With all other soil‐forming factors relatively constant, the differences encountered in soils across the study area relate directly to parent material.