Features of soils in the floodplain landscapes of Siberian Rivers

Abstract

This paper examines the role of soils in floodplain landscapes of Siberian Rivers. Floodplain landscapes are very specific objects in terms of variability and stability. Their structure is constantly changing under the influence of external factors. The processes of formation of floodplain soils are described. The deposition of alluvium plays an important role in the development of soil-forming process of the floodplain. Formed by alluvial sediments, the floodplain soils are periodically replenished with elements of plant nutrients that cause an increased and sustainable fertility of floodplain soils. The main role in the formation of soils in the floodplain landscapes of Siberian Rivers belongs to the sod soil-forming process. It takes place when there is a strong grass, sod forming, and relatively deep groundwater. It is confined mainly to the riverside floodplain and high hills of the central floodplain. The structure of the soil cover of the floodplain of rivers is analysed and mapped. The following types of alluvial soils have become widespread: sod stratified, sod, sod-gley (meadow soils), silty-gley, peatgley and peat. The characteristics of these types of soils are given.