Selectivity of soil constituents by termites in the construction of Brazilian termite mounds

Termites can create structures that alter the physical and chemical properties of soils. In this process, termites are selective about the soil constituents they will use to construct their mounds. Considering the common occurrence of termite mounds in Brazilian soils, this study aimed to investigate the selective action of termites in the mound building process. Samples were collected from six termite mounds and control soils (at a distance of 15 to 30 m from the termite mound) in different regions in Brazil to analyze the fine earth fraction. The content of clay fraction, organic C and Fe in pedogenic iron oxides increased in the mounds resulting in specific surface area increments. X-ray diffraction indicated a selectivity of termites by clay-sized particles such as kaolinite, gibbsite and iron oxides (hematite and goethite) rather than larger particles such as quartz. The proportion of low-crystalline iron oxides and the maghemite amount decreased in the mounds. The change of color parameters in the termite mounds was due to a combination of increase in clay fraction, organic carbon and iron oxides. The techniques used were sensitive, indicating changes and similarities between the control soils and the termite mounds.(AU)

Preconsolidation stress of gibbsitic and kaolinitic Oxisols under a multipractice conservationist coffee system / Pressão de pré-consolidação de Latossolos gibbsítico e caulinítico sob sistema de multipraticas conservacionista no cultivo cafeeiro

Our goal was to analyze the impact of a multipractice soil conservationist system on coffee production in tropical soils (LATOSSOLO VERMELHO-AMARELO caulinítico/kaolinitic Haplustox and LATOSSOLO VERMELHO-gibbsítico/gibbsitic Acrustox) in Minas Gerais, Brazil. In the experimental area, the soil management involved a set of multiple conservationist practices during cultivation for more than 3.5 yrs. Soil samples were collected at 0-5, 10-15, and 20-25 cm depths at two positions: planting rows and between rows. The soil physical and mechanical properties were determined, with a focus mainly on the preconsolidation stress model (preconsolidation stress versus matric tension). For the purpose of analysis, a split-split plot experimental design was implemented. A linear mixed regression model (LMR) was fitted, and Wald's test was performed (P < 0.05). An improvement of soil physical quality for both Oxisols was observed at the planting row position. The effects of multipractice soil management after 3.5 yrs of cultivation in association with increased gibbsite content could promote new soil structure organization, as revealed by LMR, resulting in more resilient soils (between rows) and increasing the resistance to external pressures on gibbsitic Acrustox. Overall, the findings herein are in concordance with global trends towards conservationist practices that may alleviate soil compaction in agricultural systems to maintain environmental sustainability.(AU)

Nosso objetivo foi analisar o impacto de um sistema de manejo do solo com multi-práticas conservacionistas para o cultivo cafeeiro em solos tropicais (LATOSSOLO VERMELHO-AMARELO caulinítico/ kaolinitic Haplustox and LATOSSOLO VERMELHO gibbsítico/ gibbsitic Acrustox) em Minas Gerais, Brasil. Na área experimental, o manejo do solo incluiu um conjunto de multi-práticas conservacionistas por mais de 3,5 anos. Amostras de solo foram coletadas em 0-5; 10-15; e profundidades de 20 a 25 cm em duas posições: linha e entrelinha. As propriedades físicas e mecânicas do solo foram determinadas, concentrando-se principalmente na modelagem da compactação (estresse de pré-consolidação versus tensão matricial). Para fins de análise, foi considerado o delineamento experimental de parcelas subsubdivididas. Foi ajustado o modelo de regressão linear mista (RLM), bem como o teste F de Wald (P < 0,05). Melhorias na qualidade física do solo em ambos os Latossolos foi observada na linha de plantio. Os efeitos do sistema de manejo multipráticas usado após 3,5 anos de cultivo associado ao maior conteúdo de gibbsita podem promover uma nova organização da estrutura do solo revelada pelo RLM, que resulta em solos mais resilientes (na entrelinha), melhorando a resistência às pressões externas aplicadas ao Latossolo gibbsítico. No geral, os resultados aqui apresentadas estão de acordo com as tendências globais em direção a práticas conservacionistas que podem aliviar a compactação do solo em sistemas agrícolas e manter a sustentabilidade ambiental.(AU)

Mineralogical, chemical and electrochemical attributes of soils

A set of attributes endows the soils with distinctive characteristics and astute understanding is required in order to formulate suitable strategies for soil management. The aim of this study was to physically, chemically and mineralogically characterize samples of the main soil classes in Minas Gerais, Brazil, determine the point of zero salt effect (PZSE) and the point of zero charge (PZC), and ascertain the correlation between these factors and soil attributes. The soils evaluated presented different textural classes ranging from loamy sand (Entisol) to very clayey (some Oxisols and Ultisols). The soils differed substantially in terms of fertility, presenting a range from dystrophic (low fertility, base saturation < 50 %) to eutrophic character (fertility, base saturation >= 50 %), even within the same soil class, such as the Oxisols, which suggests the concurrence of the parent material. Highly weathered soils are predominant in Minas Gerais and these soils are composed predominantly of kaolinite, gibbsite, goethite and hematite. Traces of hydroxy-Al interlayered vermiculite and illite were also found in the Oxisols, Ultisols and Inceptisols. A correlation between the PZSE and the PZC in the A horizon was observed. A high degree of correlation was observed between the PZC and the exchangeable aluminum and the ratio of iron obtained by ammonium oxalate and dithionite-citrate (Feo/Fed) in both the A and B horizons of soil classes. The results obtained reinforce the importance of knowledge of soil attributes to the adoption of practices such as the management of phosphate fertilization in clayey soils and liming in soils rich in aluminum.(AU)

Adsorption and desorption of arsenic and its immobilization in soils

Arsenic (As) is a naturally occurring chemical element considered toxic and carcinogenic by health and environmental protection agencies. Studies of As adsorption/desorption behavior in soils are important to predictions of As’ potential mobility in natural systems. The aim of this study was to assess the adsorption of As(V) in soils from Minas Gerais, Brazil, and determine its immobilization rate in order to identify soils with characteristics more favorable to its deployment as an As geochemical barrier. The adsorption experiment was performed using different As concentrations and the data pertaining to the maximum adsorption capacity of As(V) (MACAs) were determined by Langmuir and Freundlich isoterms. The Oxisols, due to their more oxidic mineralogy, especially more gibbsitic, and clayey texture, showed the highest MACAs, followed by Ultisols, Inceptisols, and Entisols. In terms of the desorption of As the Inceptisols were the soils that showed the most As desorption. Both As desorption and mobility was lower in the more oxidic and clayey soils. In all soils, the total amount of As was desorbed in due course, but the As release ratio tended to decrease with the passage of time. In general, soils with higher MACAs did not necessarily show less As desorption. For use as a geochemical barrier, as important as a high adsorption capacity of As by the soil is a low As desorption rate. The increase in As mobility may increase the risks of contaminating the supplies of water. To be a good As geochemical barrier the soil has to be a clayey Oxisol, with relatively high amounts of Fe and Al oxides, especially gibbsite.

Mineralogical, chemical and electrochemical attributes of soils

A set of attributes endows the soils with distinctive characteristics and astute understanding is required in order to formulate suitable strategies for soil management. The aim of this study was to physically, chemically and mineralogically characterize samples of the main soil classes in Minas Gerais, Brazil, determine the point of zero salt effect (PZSE) and the point of zero charge (PZC), and ascertain the correlation between these factors and soil attributes. The soils evaluated presented different textural classes ranging from loamy sand (Entisol) to very clayey (some Oxisols and Ultisols). The soils differed substantially in terms of fertility, presenting a range from dystrophic (low fertility, base saturation = 50 %), even within the same soil class, such as the Oxisols, which suggests the concurrence of the parent material. Highly weathered soils are predominant in Minas Gerais and these soils are composed predominantly of kaolinite, gibbsite, goethite and hematite. Traces of hydroxy-Al interlayered vermiculite and illite were also found in the Oxisols, Ultisols and Inceptisols. A correlation between the PZSE and the PZC in the A horizon was observed. A high degree of correlation was observed between the PZC and the exchangeable aluminum and the ratio of iron obtained by ammonium oxalate and dithionite-citrate (Feo/Fed) in both the A and B horizons of soil classes. The results obtained reinforce the importance of knowledge of soil attributes to the adoption of practices such as the management of phosphate fertilization in clayey soils and liming in soils rich in aluminum.

Adsorption and desorption of arsenic and its immobilization in soils

Arsenic (As) is a naturally occurring chemical element considered toxic and carcinogenic by health and environmental protection agencies. Studies of As adsorption/desorption behavior in soils are important to predictions of As potential mobility in natural systems. The aim of this study was to assess the adsorption of As(V) in soils from Minas Gerais, Brazil, and determine its immobilization rate in order to identify soils with characteristics more favorable to its deployment as an As geochemical barrier. The adsorption experiment was performed using different As concentrations and the data pertaining to the maximum adsorption capacity of As(V) (MACAs) were determined by Langmuir and Freundlich isoterms. The Oxisols, due to their more oxidic mineralogy, especially more gibbsitic, and clayey texture, showed the highest MACAs, followed by Ultisols, Inceptisols, and Entisols. In terms of the desorption of As the Inceptisols were the soils that showed the most As desorption. Both As desorption and mobility was lower in the more oxidic and clayey soils. In all soils, the total amount of As was desorbed in due course, but the As release ratio tended to decrease with the passage of time. In general, soils with higher MACAs did not necessarily show less As desorption. For use as a geochemical barrier, as important as a high adsorption capacity of As by the soil is a low As desorption rate. The increase in As mobility may increase the risks of contaminating the supplies of water. To be a good As geochemical barrier the soil has to be a clayey Oxisol, with relatively high amounts of Fe and Al oxides, especially gibbsite.(AU)

Mineralogical and chemical attributes of soils from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest domain

The Atlantic Forest is one of the most important and yet the most devastated Brazilian biome, occupying in the past the majority of the East Atlantic Coast. Therefore, a detailed knowledge of the soils near the coastal line influenced by this biome is essential for land use and management of these environments. The aim of this study was to acquire a deeper knowledge of the chemistry, mineralogy and genesis of soils in two micro-watersheds of the Atlantic Forest Biome. Eight soil profiles were sampled and described along one transect. Both young and more developed soils exhibit low fertility and low Fe2O3 content. The Oxic Dystrudepts are less dystrophic than the other soils studied and exhibit greater availability of K+, due to the mixing of weathered material and primary minerals. Transitions from shallow to deep soils are more common in rejuvenated landscapes. All soils are kaolinitic (Kt), with low levels of goethite (Gt) and hematite (Hm), and contain secondary 2:1 minerals such as mica (Mi) and, in the youngest soils, hydroxy-interlayered vermiculite (HIV) and interstratified mica-hydroxy-interlayered vermiculite (Mi-HIV). The widespread presence of gibbsite (Gb) in soils, including the Lithic Udifolist, indicates high rates of both pedogenesis and morphogenesis. The gibbsite showed good crystallinity suggesting that climate, terrain and good drainage favored its formation and stability.

Mineralogical and chemical attributes of soils from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest domain

The Atlantic Forest is one of the most important and yet the most devastated Brazilian biome, occupying in the past the majority of the East Atlantic Coast. Therefore, a detailed knowledge of the soils near the coastal line influenced by this biome is essential for land use and management of these environments. The aim of this study was to acquire a deeper knowledge of the chemistry, mineralogy and genesis of soils in two micro-watersheds of the Atlantic Forest Biome. Eight soil profiles were sampled and described along one transect. Both young and more developed soils exhibit low fertility and low Fe2O3 content. The Oxic Dystrudepts are less dystrophic than the other soils studied and exhibit greater availability of K+, due to the mixing of weathered material and primary minerals. Transitions from shallow to deep soils are more common in rejuvenated landscapes. All soils are kaolinitic (Kt), with low levels of goethite (Gt) and hematite (Hm), and contain secondary 2:1 minerals such as mica (Mi) and, in the youngest soils, hydroxy-interlayered vermiculite (HIV) and interstratified mica-hydroxy-interlayered vermiculite (Mi-HIV). The widespread presence of gibbsite (Gb) in soils, including the Lithic Udifolist, indicates high rates of both pedogenesis and morphogenesis. The gibbsite showed good crystallinity suggesting that climate, terrain and good drainage favored its formation and stability.(AU)

Mineralogia da argila e propriedades químicas de solos do Planalto Norte Catarinense / Clay mineralogy and chemical properties of soils in the north plateau of Santa Catarina state

No Planalto Norte Catarinense são escassas as informações sobre a composição mineralógica dos solos e há poucos perfis de solo descritos e caracterizados para a região. O mapa de solos de Santa Catarina indica predominância de Cambissolos, Neossolos Litólicos e Latossolos, com Gleissolos ocupando áreas de várzeas. Esses solos ocorrem em relevo desde plano até forte ondulado, onde pequenos e médios proprietários rurais desenvolvem cultivos diversificados, com áreas expressivas de reflorestamentos com pinus. Este trabalho objetivou aprofundar o conhecimento sobre a mineralogia e as propriedades químicas de alguns desses solos, desenvolvidos de rochas sedimentares de distintas formações geológicas. Foram descritos e amostrados 5 (cinco) perfis de solo, sendo um Latossolo e quatro Cambissolos.  Na TFSA, foram feitas análises físicas (areia, silte, argila) e químicas de caracterização básica ( pH em água e sal, carbono orgânico, Ca, Mg, K, Na, Al, H+Al) e com base nesses parâmetros foi calculada a CTC efetiva, CTC pH7, Soma e Saturação por Bases. Análises mineralógicas foram conduzidas na fração argila do horizonte B de cada solo, utilizando-se difratometria de raios X. Todos os solos apresentaram reação muito ácida, com baixa soma e saturação por bases e teores elevados de carbono orgânico e Al trocável. A mineralogia da fração argila revelou predomínio de caulinitas em todos os solos, com quantidades consideráveis de illita, gibbsita e vermiculita com hidroxi-Al entrecamadas.

In the North Plateau of Santa Catarina state, Brazil, there is little information about the mineralogical composition of the soils and a few soil profiles were described and characterized in the region. The two generalized soil maps of Santa Catarina indicate predominance of Inceptisols, Entisols and Oxisols, with hydromorphic soils occupying areas of floodplains. These soils occur in relief from plane to strong wavy, where small and medium rural farmers develop diversified crops, with significant areas with pine reforestation. This work aimed to increase the knowledge of the mineralogical and chemical properties of some of these soils developed from sedimentary rocks of different geological formations. Five soil profiles were described and sampled, included one oxisol and four Inceptisols. In fine earth, physical (sand, silt, clay) and chemical analyzes were performed (pH in water, organic carbon, Ca2+, Mg, K, Na, Al, H + Al) and based on these attributes was calculated effective CEC, CEC at pH7, sum of bases and base saturation. Mineralogical analyzes were conducted in the clay fraction of the B horizon of each soil, using X-ray diffraction techniques. All soils showed very acid reaction, with low sum of bases and base saturation and high levels of organic carbon and exchangeable Al. The clay mineralogy revealed predominance of kaolinite in all soils, with considerable amounts of gibbsite, and vermiculite with hydroxy-Al interlayered.

Mineralogia da argila e propriedades químicas de solos do Planalto Norte Catarinense / Clay mineralogy and chemical properties of soils in the north plateau of Santa Catarina state

No Planalto Norte Catarinense são escassas as informações sobre a composição mineralógica dos solos e há poucos perfis de solo descritos e caracterizados para a região. O mapa de solos de Santa Catarina indica predominância de Cambissolos, Neossolos Litólicos e Latossolos, com Gleissolos ocupando áreas de várzeas. Esses solos ocorrem em relevo desde plano até forte ondulado, onde pequenos e médios proprietários rurais desenvolvem cultivos diversificados, com áreas expressivas de reflorestamentos com pinus. Este trabalho objetivou aprofundar o conhecimento sobre a mineralogia e as propriedades químicas de alguns desses solos, desenvolvidos de rochas sedimentares de distintas formações geológicas. Foram descritos e amostrados 5 (cinco) perfis de solo, sendo um Latossolo e quatro Cambissolos.  Na TFSA, foram feitas análises físicas (areia, silte, argila) e químicas de caracterização básica ( pH em água e sal, carbono orgânico, Ca, Mg, K, Na, Al, H+Al) e com base nesses parâmetros foi calculada a CTC efetiva, CTC pH7, Soma e Saturação por Bases. Análises mineralógicas foram conduzidas na fração argila do horizonte B de cada solo, utilizando-se difratometria de raios X. Todos os solos apresentaram reação muito ácida, com baixa soma e saturação por bases e teores elevados de carbono orgânico e Al trocável. A mineralogia da fração argila revelou predomínio de caulinitas em todos os solos, com quantidades consideráveis de illita, gibbsita e vermiculita com hidroxi-Al entrecamadas.(AU)

In the North Plateau of Santa Catarina state, Brazil, there is little information about the mineralogical composition of the soils and a few soil profiles were described and characterized in the region. The two generalized soil maps of Santa Catarina indicate predominance of Inceptisols, Entisols and Oxisols, with hydromorphic soils occupying areas of floodplains. These soils occur in relief from plane to strong wavy, where small and medium rural farmers develop diversified crops, with significant areas with pine reforestation. This work aimed to increase the knowledge of the mineralogical and chemical properties of some of these soils developed from sedimentary rocks of different geological formations. Five soil profiles were described and sampled, included one oxisol and four Inceptisols. In fine earth, physical (sand, silt, clay) and chemical analyzes were performed (pH in water, organic carbon, Ca2+, Mg, K, Na, Al, H + Al) and based on these attributes was calculated effective CEC, CEC at pH7, sum of bases and base saturation. Mineralogical analyzes were conducted in the clay fraction of the B horizon of each soil, using X-ray diffraction techniques. All soils showed very acid reaction, with low sum of bases and base saturation and high levels of organic carbon and exchangeable Al. The clay mineralogy revealed predominance of kaolinite in all soils, with considerable amounts of gibbsite, and vermiculite with hydroxy-Al interlayered.(AU)

A crosta laterítica ferro-titanífera da Vila Nova Colina e a lateritização no sul de Roraima / The iron-titaniferous lateritic crust of the Vila Nova Colina and the lateritization in south of Roraima

Lateritic crusts developed upon the Guiana Shield basement rocks (e.g. granites of the Água Branca Intrusive Suite) was recognized in the Vila Nova Colina region, located in south Roraima state. The objectives of this work were to study the mineral and geochemical characteristics of lateritic crusts and to evaluate the relationship between them and the rocks of the region, in order to understand the evolution of laterization and provide information about the economic potential. This study comprises petrography, mineralogy and litogeochemical investigations of the granites, the quartz-hornblende gabbro and the lateritic crusts formed from these rocks. The granites and the quartz-hornblende gabbro has developed, respectively, a specific type of lateritic crust: (i) the ferruginous vermiform one with high amounts of kaolinite, goethite, hematite, magnetite and anatase, higher concentration of Al2O3, Sc, Th e Zr and, (ii) the iron-titaniferous massive one with high amounts of magnetite, hematite, maghemite, goethite, kaolinite, anatase, gibbsite and ilmenite, and consequently in higher amounts of Fe2O3, TiO2, V e Cu. Each crust type indicates the effect of the lateritization in the south portion of Roraima and their topographic position. The higher topographic position of the massive crust (220 m), its mineral and geochemical composition, indicate the maturity (i.e. needed more time to be formed) and may represent a relict of an erosion phase in the region, probably associated with a subsidence of the Tacutu basin in the Miocene. Otherwise, the vermiform crust formed at a lower topographic position (140 m) with no gibbsite, suggests that it is younger than the massive one and represents the immature laterization of the Plio-Pleistocene.

Crostas lateríticas desenvolvidas sobre as rochas do embasamento do Escudo das Guianas (p.e. granitos da Suíte Intrusiva Água Branca) são reconhecidas na região de Vila Nova Colina, localizada ao sul do estado de Roraima. Os objetivos deste trabalho foram estudar as características minerais e geoquímicas dessas crostas lateríticas e avaliar a relação entre elas e as rochas da região, a fim de entender a evolução da lateritização e fornecer informações sobre seu potencial econômico. Este estudo compreende dados de petrografia, mineralogia e litogeoquímica de granitos, quartzo-hornblenda gabro e crostas lateríticas formadas a partir dessas rochas. Os granitos e o quartzo-hornblenda gabro desenvolveram, respectivamente, um tipo específico de crosta laterítica: (i) vermiforme ferruginosa com elevados teores de caulinita, goethita, hematita, magnetita e anatásio e maior concentração de Al2O3, Sc, Th, e Zr e, (ii) maciça ferro-titanífera com altos teores de magnetita, hematita, maghemita, goethita, caulinita, anatásio, gibbsita e ilmenita e de Fe2O3, TiO2, V e Cu. Cada tipo de crosta indica o efeito da lateritização na porção sul de Roraima e sua posição topográfica. O posicionamento topográfico mais elevado da crosta maciça (220 m) e sua composição mineralógica e geoquímica, indicam sua maturidade (isto é, precisou de mais tempo para ser formada) e, portanto relicto de uma fase erosiva na região, provavelmente associada a subsidência da bacia do Tacutu no Mioceno. Enquanto a crosta vermiforme em uma posição mais rebaixada (140 m) sem gibbsita, sugere que ela é mais jovem que a maciça e representa a lateritização imatura do Plio-Pleistoceno.

A crosta laterítica ferro-titanífera da Vila Nova Colina e a lateritização no sul de Roraima / The iron-titaniferous lateritic crust of the Vila Nova Colina and the lateritization in south of Roraima

Lateritic crusts developed upon the Guiana Shield basement rocks (e.g. granites of the Água Branca Intrusive Suite) was recognized in the Vila Nova Colina region, located in south Roraima state. The objectives of this work were to study the mineral and geochemical characteristics of lateritic crusts and to evaluate the relationship between them and the rocks of the region, in order to understand the evolution of laterization and provide information about the economic potential. This study comprises petrography, mineralogy and litogeochemical investigations of the granites, the quartz-hornblende gabbro and the lateritic crusts formed from these rocks. The granites and the quartz-hornblende gabbro has developed, respectively, a specific type of lateritic crust: (i) the ferruginous vermiform one with high amounts of kaolinite, goethite, hematite, magnetite and anatase, higher concentration of Al2O3, Sc, Th e Zr and, (ii) the iron-titaniferous massive one with high amounts of magnetite, hematite, maghemite, goethite, kaolinite, anatase, gibbsite and ilmenite, and consequently in higher amounts of Fe2O3, TiO2, V e Cu. Each crust type indicates the effect of the lateritization in the south portion of Roraima and their topographic position. The higher topographic position of the massive crust (220 m), its mineral and geochemical composition, indicate the maturity (i.e. needed more time to be formed) and may represent a relict of an erosion phase in the region, probably associated with a subsidence of the Tacutu basin in the Miocene. Otherwise, the vermiform crust formed at a lower topographic position (140 m) with no gibbsite, suggests that it is younger than the massive one and represents the immature laterization of the Plio-Pleistocene.(AU)

Crostas lateríticas desenvolvidas sobre as rochas do embasamento do Escudo das Guianas (p.e. granitos da Suíte Intrusiva Água Branca) são reconhecidas na região de Vila Nova Colina, localizada ao sul do estado de Roraima. Os objetivos deste trabalho foram estudar as características minerais e geoquímicas dessas crostas lateríticas e avaliar a relação entre elas e as rochas da região, a fim de entender a evolução da lateritização e fornecer informações sobre seu potencial econômico. Este estudo compreende dados de petrografia, mineralogia e litogeoquímica de granitos, quartzo-hornblenda gabro e crostas lateríticas formadas a partir dessas rochas. Os granitos e o quartzo-hornblenda gabro desenvolveram, respectivamente, um tipo específico de crosta laterítica: (i) vermiforme ferruginosa com elevados teores de caulinita, goethita, hematita, magnetita e anatásio e maior concentração de Al2O3, Sc, Th, e Zr e, (ii) maciça ferro-titanífera com altos teores de magnetita, hematita, maghemita, goethita, caulinita, anatásio, gibbsita e ilmenita e de Fe2O3, TiO2, V e Cu. Cada tipo de crosta indica o efeito da lateritização na porção sul de Roraima e sua posição topográfica. O posicionamento topográfico mais elevado da crosta maciça (220 m) e sua composição mineralógica e geoquímica, indicam sua maturidade (isto é, precisou de mais tempo para ser formada) e, portanto relicto de uma fase erosiva na região, provavelmente associada a subsidência da bacia do Tacutu no Mioceno. Enquanto a crosta vermiforme em uma posição mais rebaixada (140 m) sem gibbsita, sugere que ela é mais jovem que a maciça e representa a lateritização imatura do Plio-Pleistoceno.(AU)

Methods of soil organic carbon determination in Brazilian savannah soils

Several methods exist for determining soil organic carbon, and each one has its own advantages and limitations. Consequently, a comparison of the experimental results obtained when these methods are employed is hampered, causing problems in the comparison of carbon stocks in soils. This study aimed at evaluating the analytical procedures used in the determination of carbon and their relationships with soil mineralogy and texture. Wet combustion methods, including Walkley-Black, Mebius and Colorimetric determination as well as dry combustion methods, such as Elemental and Gravimetric Analysis were used. Quantitative textural and mineralogical (kaolinite, goethite and gibbsite) analyses were also carried out. The wet digestion methods underestimated the concentration of organic carbon, while the gravimetric method overestimated. Soil mineralogy interfered with the determination of carbon, with emphasis on the gravimetric method that was greatly influenced by gibbsite.

Methods of soil organic carbon determination in Brazilian savannah soils

Several methods exist for determining soil organic carbon, and each one has its own advantages and limitations. Consequently, a comparison of the experimental results obtained when these methods are employed is hampered, causing problems in the comparison of carbon stocks in soils. This study aimed at evaluating the analytical procedures used in the determination of carbon and their relationships with soil mineralogy and texture. Wet combustion methods, including Walkley-Black, Mebius and Colorimetric determination as well as dry combustion methods, such as Elemental and Gravimetric Analysis were used. Quantitative textural and mineralogical (kaolinite, goethite and gibbsite) analyses were also carried out. The wet digestion methods underestimated the concentration of organic carbon, while the gravimetric method overestimated. Soil mineralogy interfered with the determination of carbon, with emphasis on the gravimetric method that was greatly influenced by gibbsite.(AU)

Clay mineralogy and magnetic susceptibility of Oxisols in geomorphic surfaces

Studies analyzing the variability of clay minerals and magnetic susceptibility provide data for the delineation of site-specific management areas since many of their attributes are important to agronomy and the environment. This study aimed to evaluate the spatial variability of clay minerals, magnetic susceptibility, adsorbed phosphorus and physical attributes in Oxisols of sandstones in different geomorphic surfaces. For that purpose, soil samples were collected every 25 m along a transect located within the area where the geomorphic surfaces were identified and mapped. The transect occupied the central portion of 500 ha, where it was also sampled for density purposes with one sample per six hectares. Soil samples were collected at a depth of 0.0-0.2 m. The results of the physical, chemical, mineralogical and magnetic susceptibility analyses were subjected to statistical and geostatistical analyses. The nature of the clay minerals and magnetic susceptibility was dependent on the variation of the soil parent material. High values of magnetic susceptibility were associated with the presence of maghemite and magnetite of coarse size. The spatial variability of crystallinity and the content of Fe oxides, as well as magnetic susceptibility, were dependent on the age of the geomorphic surfaces. The youngest surface had greater spatial variability of these attributes. The iron (goethite and hematite) and aluminum (gibbsite) oxides in the youngest geomorphic surface influenced the low values of soil density and high values of total pore volume, micropores and P adsorption. The characterization of the spatial variability of Fe oxides and susceptibility allowed for the delineation of homogeneous areas.(AU)

Clay mineralogy and magnetic susceptibility of Oxisols in geomorphic surfaces

Studies analyzing the variability of clay minerals and magnetic susceptibility provide data for the delineation of site-specific management areas since many of their attributes are important to agronomy and the environment. This study aimed to evaluate the spatial variability of clay minerals, magnetic susceptibility, adsorbed phosphorus and physical attributes in Oxisols of sandstones in different geomorphic surfaces. For that purpose, soil samples were collected every 25 m along a transect located within the area where the geomorphic surfaces were identified and mapped. The transect occupied the central portion of 500 ha, where it was also sampled for density purposes with one sample per six hectares. Soil samples were collected at a depth of 0.0-0.2 m. The results of the physical, chemical, mineralogical and magnetic susceptibility analyses were subjected to statistical and geostatistical analyses. The nature of the clay minerals and magnetic susceptibility was dependent on the variation of the soil parent material. High values of magnetic susceptibility were associated with the presence of maghemite and magnetite of coarse size. The spatial variability of crystallinity and the content of Fe oxides, as well as magnetic susceptibility, were dependent on the age of the geomorphic surfaces. The youngest surface had greater spatial variability of these attributes. The iron (goethite and hematite) and aluminum (gibbsite) oxides in the youngest geomorphic surface influenced the low values of soil density and high values of total pore volume, micropores and P adsorption. The characterization of the spatial variability of Fe oxides and susceptibility allowed for the delineation of homogeneous areas.

Carbon sequestration in clay and silt fractions of Brazilian soils under conventional and no-tillage systems

The capacity of soils to sequestrate carbon (C) is mainly related to the formation of organo-mineral complexes. In this study, we investigated the influence of soil management systems on the C retention capacity of soil with an emphasis on the silt and clay fractions of two subtropical soils with different mineralogy and climate. Samples from a Humic Hapludox and a Rhodic Hapludox, clayey soils cultivated for approximately 30 years under no-tillage (NT) and conventional tillage (CT) were collected from six layers distributed within 100-cm soil depth from each site and from an adjacent native forest. After the removal of particulate organic matter (POM), the suspension ( 53 µm) was sonicated, the silt and clay fractions were separated in accordance with Stokes' law and the carbon content of whole soil and physical fractions was determined. In the Humic Hapludox, the clay and silt fractions under NT showed a higher maximum C retention (72 and 52 g kg-1, respectively) in comparison to those under CT (54 and 38 g kg-1, respectively). Moreover, the C concentration increase in both fractions under NT occurred mainly in the topsoil (up to 5 cm). The C retention in physical fractions of Rhodic Hapludox varied from 25 to 32 g kg-1, and no difference was observed whether under an NT or a CT management system. The predominance of goethite and gibbsite in the Humic Hapludox, as well as its exposure to a colder climate, may have contributed to its greater C retention capacity. In addition to the organo-mineral interaction, a mechanism of organic matter self-assemblage, enhanced by longer periods of soil non-disturbance, seems to have contributed to the carbon stabilization in both soils.

Carbon sequestration in clay and silt fractions of Brazilian soils under conventional and no-tillage systems

The capacity of soils to sequestrate carbon (C) is mainly related to the formation of organo-mineral complexes. In this study, we investigated the influence of soil management systems on the C retention capacity of soil with an emphasis on the silt and clay fractions of two subtropical soils with different mineralogy and climate. Samples from a Humic Hapludox and a Rhodic Hapludox, clayey soils cultivated for approximately 30 years under no-tillage (NT) and conventional tillage (CT) were collected from six layers distributed within 100-cm soil depth from each site and from an adjacent native forest. After the removal of particulate organic matter (POM), the suspension ( 53 µm) was sonicated, the silt and clay fractions were separated in accordance with Stokes' law and the carbon content of whole soil and physical fractions was determined. In the Humic Hapludox, the clay and silt fractions under NT showed a higher maximum C retention (72 and 52 g kg-1, respectively) in comparison to those under CT (54 and 38 g kg-1, respectively). Moreover, the C concentration increase in both fractions under NT occurred mainly in the topsoil (up to 5 cm). The C retention in physical fractions of Rhodic Hapludox varied from 25 to 32 g kg-1, and no difference was observed whether under an NT or a CT management system. The predominance of goethite and gibbsite in the Humic Hapludox, as well as its exposure to a colder climate, may have contributed to its greater C retention capacity. In addition to the organo-mineral interaction, a mechanism of organic matter self-assemblage, enhanced by longer periods of soil non-disturbance, seems to have contributed to the carbon stabilization in both soils.(AU)

Mineralogia das frações silte e argila em Argissolos com horizontes subsuperficiais escurecidos em Santa Catarina / Mineralogy of the silt and clay fractions in Ultisols with darkened subsurface horizon in the state of Santa Catarina

No Estado de Santa Catarina há Argissolos com horizonte subsuperficial escurecido com morfologia semelhante à dos horizontes sômbricos dos sistemas de classifi cação norteamericano (Soil Taxonomy - ST) e da FAO (World Reference Base – WRB), mas existem dúvidas quanto à possibilidade de serem horizontes A enterrados. O presente trabalho avaliou a composição mineralógica das frações silte e argila dos horizontes genéticos de três Argissolos (Vermelho, Amarelo e Bruno-Acinzentado) com horizontes diagnósticos subsuperficiais similares ao sômbrico, localizados na região leste catarinense, objetivando identificar possíveis descontinuidades litológicas influenciando a gênese desses horizontes escuros. As amostras dos Argissolos foram coletadas nos municípios de Içara, Rancho Queimado e Alfredo Wagner. Na fração TFSA procedeu-se à separação das frações silte e argila para análises por difratometria de raios-X (DRX), analisadas respectivamente em pó e em lâminas de argila orientada. Parte das amostras da fração argila, após eliminação da matéria orgânica e dos óxidos de ferro, foi saturada com magnésio e solvatada com etileno-glicol. Outra parte foi saturada com potássio e submetida a várias temperaturas. As análises por DRX indicaram haver descontinuidade litológica nos Argissolos Amarelo e Bruno-Acinzentado, sugerindo que nesses solos os horizontes subsuperfi ciais escuros sejam antigos A enterrados, e não horizontes sômbricos. O Argissolo Vermelho de Içara não apresentou evidências de descontinuidade na litologia entre os horizontes, podendo indicar um horizonte sômbrico, o que depende de maiores investigações. A mineralogia da fração argila revelou predominância de caulinita nos Argissolos, e quantidades expressivas de vermiculita com polímeros de hidróxi-alumínio nas entrecamadas, além de gibbsita, illita e quartzo. No silte, os difratogramas indicaram somente quartzo em quantidades detectáveis, demonstrando não haver reserva mineral nesses solos.

In the Santa Catarina state there occurs darkened subsurface horizon in Ultisols, whose morphology is similar to the sombric horizons of the Soil Taxonomy and FAO classifi cation systems. But there are doubts about the possibility of there being buried horizons. The present study aimed to identify lithologic discontinuities in mineralogy of the silt and clay fractions of three Ultisols (red, yellow and brown-gray) which exhibit similar morphology to sombric horizons, located in the eastern region of Santa Catarina state. Samples. were collected in the Ultisols from Içara, Rancho Queimado e Alfredo Wagner municipalities. In the samples TFSA proceeded to separate the silt and clay samples for analysis by X-ray diffraction (XRD) , respectively analyzed in powder and oriented clay slides . Part of the clay samples, after removal of organic matter and the iron oxides was saturated with magnesium and saturated with ethylene glycol. After being analyzed by X-ray diffraction the samples saturated with magnesium underwent saturation with thylene glycol. The samples that were saturated with potassium were heated to various temperatures. The results identifi ed discontinuity clay mineralogy in Yellow and Brown-Gray Ultisols. These soils do not have sombric horizons. The Red Ultisol showed no mineralogical discontinuity and depend on further studies to confi rm or not sombric horizon. The mineralogy of the clay sample indicated a predominance of kaolinite in all Ultisols, with signifi cant amounts of vermiculite with hydroxyaluminum interlayered, gibbsite, illite and quartz. The silt sample showed only quartz. The soils have no detectable mineral reserve for plants.

Mineralogia das frações silte e argila em Argissolos com horizontes subsuperficiais escurecidos em Santa Catarina / Mineralogy of the silt and clay fractions in Ultisols with darkened subsurface horizon in the state of Santa Catarina

No Estado de Santa Catarina há Argissolos com horizonte subsuperficial escurecido com morfologia semelhante à dos horizontes sômbricos dos sistemas de classifi cação norteamericano (Soil Taxonomy - ST) e da FAO (World Reference Base WRB), mas existem dúvidas quanto à possibilidade de serem horizontes A enterrados. O presente trabalho avaliou a composição mineralógica das frações silte e argila dos horizontes genéticos de três Argissolos (Vermelho, Amarelo e Bruno-Acinzentado) com horizontes diagnósticos subsuperficiais similares ao sômbrico, localizados na região leste catarinense, objetivando identificar possíveis descontinuidades litológicas influenciando a gênese desses horizontes escuros. As amostras dos Argissolos foram coletadas nos municípios de Içara, Rancho Queimado e Alfredo Wagner. Na fração TFSA procedeu-se à separação das frações silte e argila para análises por difratometria de raios-X (DRX), analisadas respectivamente em pó e em lâminas de argila orientada. Parte das amostras da fração argila, após eliminação da matéria orgânica e dos óxidos de ferro, foi saturada com magnésio e solvatada com etileno-glicol. Outra parte foi saturada com potássio e submetida a várias temperaturas. As análises por DRX indicaram haver descontinuidade litológica nos Argissolos Amarelo e Bruno-Acinzentado, sugerindo que nesses solos os horizontes subsuperfi ciais escuros sejam antigos A enterrados, e não horizontes sômbricos. O Argissolo Vermelho de Içara não apresentou evidências de descontinuidade na litologia entre os horizontes, podendo indicar um horizonte sômbrico, o que depende de maiores investigações. A mineralogia da fração argila revelou predominância de caulinita nos Argissolos, e quantidades expressivas de vermiculita com polímeros de hidróxi-alumínio nas entrecamadas, além de gibbsita, illita e quartzo. No silte, os difratogramas indicaram somente quartzo em quantidades detectáveis, demonstrando não haver reserva mineral nesses solos.(AU)

In the Santa Catarina state there occurs darkened subsurface horizon in Ultisols, whose morphology is similar to the sombric horizons of the Soil Taxonomy and FAO classifi cation systems. But there are doubts about the possibility of there being buried horizons. The present study aimed to identify lithologic discontinuities in mineralogy of the silt and clay fractions of three Ultisols (red, yellow and brown-gray) which exhibit similar morphology to sombric horizons, located in the eastern region of Santa Catarina state. Samples. were collected in the Ultisols from Içara, Rancho Queimado e Alfredo Wagner municipalities. In the samples TFSA proceeded to separate the silt and clay samples for analysis by X-ray diffraction (XRD) , respectively analyzed in powder and oriented clay slides . Part of the clay samples, after removal of organic matter and the iron oxides was saturated with magnesium and saturated with ethylene glycol. After being analyzed by X-ray diffraction the samples saturated with magnesium underwent saturation with thylene glycol. The samples that were saturated with potassium were heated to various temperatures. The results identifi ed discontinuity clay mineralogy in Yellow and Brown-Gray Ultisols. These soils do not have sombric horizons. The Red Ultisol showed no mineralogical discontinuity and depend on further studies to confi rm or not sombric horizon. The mineralogy of the clay sample indicated a predominance of kaolinite in all Ultisols, with signifi cant amounts of vermiculite with hydroxyaluminum interlayered, gibbsite, illite and quartz. The silt sample showed only quartz. The soils have no detectable mineral reserve for plants.(AU)