Snowbeds on Silicate Rocks in the Upper Engadine (Central Alps, Switzerland)—Pedogenesis and Interactions among Soil, Vegetation, and Snow Cover

Abstract

The pedogenesis and interactions among soil, vegetation, and snow cover of four alpine snowbeds on silicate rocks in the Upper Engadine (Central Alps, Switzerland) were investigated. The long-lasting snow cover of snowbeds causes differences in pedogenesis and soil properties compared to adjacent alpine sward. Because of the drainage characteristics of the silicate parent material, pedogenesis of snowbeds varies. On well-drained parent material, percolating meltwater favors podzolization during snowmelt. On less permeable parent material, meltwater causes temporarily water-logged conditions. Thus, the snowbed soils show redoximorphic features such as iron concretions. Snowbed soils are classified as Inceptisols or Entisols. A more detailed differentiation is only possible at the soil family level. Outside the snowbeds, moder humus forms (Rhizic Leptomoder, Rhizic Mullmoder) are common, whereas inside the snowbeds, mull humus forms (Rhizomull) as well as moder humus forms (Leptomoder) occur.