Chernozem. From concept to classification: a review

Abstract

In this paper, we put together the most important facts that lead to the research on chernozem. Thanks to the work of V. V. Dokuchaev (1846–1903), chernozem stands at the forefront of pedology. In 1883, Dokuchaev introduced the first concept of chernozem: he defined chernozem as a steppe soil with pedogenesis dominated by a dry continental climate and steppe vegetation, with calcareous parent material. Chernozem is a soil well known for its high agronomical potential; therefore the perception of chernozem as something extraordinary valuable goes back far into history. Our review presents the key factors of the pedogenesis of chernozem by explaining the causes of the high stability of its organic matter and the role of vegetation and fauna in this process. Moreover, it shows that chernozem can have many aspects due to various (a) textures, (b) chemical compositions, (c) influence of water, (d) fauna, or (e) anthropogenic factors. We examine the position of chernozem in numerous national and international soil classifications over time. We have found out that chernozem had been classified, according to its properties, as a “steppe soil”, as a “calcic soil” or as an “isohumic soil”.