Systematic studies on of soil formation factors are relatively scarce in Brazil since comprehensive samplings of a variable factor while keeping others constant are difficult to perform. Near Lavras, Minas Gerais, there is wide geological diversity over a small area, which offers a chance to assess the control exerted by different lithologies on mineral suites and other soil properties. Thus, eight soils overlying quartzite, mica-schist, gabbro, itabirite, serpentinite, meta-limestone, gneiss and phyllite, under similar climate and tropical, semideciduous forest conditions were selected, all located on midslopes. After description of soil profiles, soil horizon and fresh rock samples were collected for standard physical, fertility, and chemical composition and mineralogical analyses. All soils were poor in bases (except for an Ultisol over itabirite) and showed wide textural, mineralogical and chemical variation. Despite evidence of partially allochthonous material in some cases, a strong influence of underlying lithology was noted on soil mineral suites. There were no significant correlations among Al2O3, SiO2 and Fe2O3 contents in rocks and soils, whereas Fe2O3 content was strongly correlated with particle density and magnetic susceptibility. The soils were grouped as: 1) kaolinitic with 2:1 minerals (Ultisols over mica-schist and itabirite, Inceptisol over quartzite); 2) kaolinitic (Ultisols over gneiss and phyllite), and 3) oxidic (Oxisols over meta-limestone and gabbro, plinthic Oxisol over serpentinite). Monosialitization and alitization processes predominate in the region, associated with rocks with moderate and low silica contents, respectively, whereas 2:1 minerals are accessory to kaolinite and their occurrence seems to depend on rocks rich in mica and silica.
soil parent material; soil genesis; Fe oxides; X-ray diffraction; magnetic susceptibility
