Characterization and suitability assessment of soils in rain forest zone southwest Nigeria for cassava, maize and rice production using parametric method

Authors : Fawole Ayofe, Julius Olayinka Ojetade, Sikiru Adekoya Muda

Pages : 624-642

Doi:10.29050/harranziraat.1299165

View : 61 | Download : 147

Publication Date : 2023-12-27

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :The study assessed the properties of soils derived from medium-grained granite gneissdeveloped their taxonomic classification, established soil suitability groups for theselected arable crops production, and proposed sustainable land managementpractices to improve soil sustainability. Four soil profile pits were established along each of the two topo-sequences identified at the site in compliance with FAO/UNESCOstandards. From the identified genetic horizons, soil samples were collected and subjected to routine physical and chemical analyses in the laboratory for characterization and suitability assessment. Data generated from the analyses weresubjected to descriptive and inferential statistics. Employing a parametric approachland attributes observed in the field were merged with those established in thelaboratory and crop requirements to produce soil suitability classes. The soils encountered were classed according to the USDA classification system as TypiIsohyperthermic Paleustult, Plinthic Isohyperthermic Paleustult, and aquic Psamment.They were further classified as Lixisol, Plinthic Lixisol, and Fluvisol (WRB), in that order. The actual suitability revealed that all the soil series were presently unsuitable for cropproduction. Potentially Typic Isohyperthermic Paleustult soil was rated moderatelysuitable while Plinthic Isohyperthermic Paleustult and Ustipsamment soils were rated marginally suitable for cassava and maize production. All the soils, however, are both actual and potentially unsuitable for rice production. Slope, soil nutrient availability and nutrient retention together with physical characteristics were the key agronomicconstraints of the soils encountered in the studied area. Although the soils have acomplex relationship, the investigation indicated that they are not homogeneous and vary in potentiality with different physiographic units; as a result, differentmanagement techniques at different physiographic positions are required to ensure thesustainable use of soil resources.
Keywords : Orta taneli granit gnays, Taksonomik sınıflandırma, Tipik İzohipertermik Paleustults, Plintik İzohipertermik Paleustults ve Aquic Psamments