Influence of soil properties on the aggregation of some Mediterranean soils and the use of aggregate size and stability as land degradation indicators

Abstract

Soil aggregation in relation to other soil properties was studied along a climatological transect in the Southeast of Spain. Three sites were selected along this transect ranging from semiarid to subhumid climatological conditions. The aggregate size distribution, the macro and microaggregate stability of the superficial soil horizon and their relations with other soil properties were analysed. Large aggregates (>10, 10–5, 5–2 mm) were present in highest proportions in the most arid of the studied areas. These large aggregates were associated with high values of water-stable microaggregates; however, they did not improve soil structure and are related to high bulk densities and low water retention. Aggregates 1–0.105 mm were positively correlated to medium, fine, very fine sand and silt fractions and to organic matter. Aggregates <0.105 mm were positively correlated to organic matter and clay content. Small aggregate sizes (1–0.105 and <0.105 mm) had a positive influence on soil water retention and they seem a good indicator of soil degradation. Water stability of microaggregates showed a positive correlation with clay content while the stability of the macroaggregates depended on the organic matter content when the organic matter content was greater than 5 or 6%. Below that threshold the carbonate content was strongly correlated with aggregate stability. A general conceptual scheme of associations between aggregate size distribution, water-stable microaggregation and textural characteristics for the area was developed. The land use history affecting soil overlaps the pattern of climatological situations and has to be taken into account. Aggregate size distribution and stability can be used as indicator of soil degradation, but not as a unique parameter.