Characterization and Classification of Selected Rice Soils of Tropical Rainforest Region, Southeastern Nigeria

Abstract

The study carried out in Amachi Izzi, Abakaliki, tropical rainforest region, Southeastern Nigeria was aimed at characterizing and classifying the lowland rice soils of the area. Three pedons were sunk, at the region. Results showed that soils were strongly acidic (pH <5.0), profiles 1 and 3 had low organic matter while profile 2 was moderate. Total nitrogen was also low to medium while available P was medium. Sand exhibited low variation (CV ≤15%) at Profile 2 while it indicated moderate variation (CV>15≤35%) at Profile 1 and Profile 3. Silt varied lowly (CV≤15%) at Profile 1 and moderately (CV>15≤35%) at Profile 2 and Profile 3. Clay varied highly (CV>35%) in all pedons of Abakaliki lowland soils. Base saturation varied highly (CV>35%) at Profile 1 and Profile 2 and lowly (CV≤ 15%) at Profile 3. Al saturation varied highly (CV>35%) in all pedons at Ebonyi north lowlands. Ochric epipedons were observed in pedons 1, 2 and 3 and diagnostic subsurface horizons were kandic. The temperature regime and percentage base saturation were considered at the subgroup level in the soil taxonomy. Pedons 1 and 2 were classified as Fluvaquentic Eutrudepts and Eutric Cambisol (FAO – WRB) while Pedon 3 was classified as Fluvaquentic Dystrudepts and Dystric Cambisol (FAO – WRB).