Intermittent Pond Areas in Coastal Tablelands of the Reconcavo Region of Bahia, Brazil: Genesis of Areas, Characterization, and Soil Classification

ABSTRACT

Coastal Tablelands are flattened areas cut by valleys, which have predominantly Argissolos Amarelos (Yellow Argisol) and Latossolos Amarelos (Yellow Latosol). In contrast to this landscape, there are depressed circular areas, known as ponds, that create new dynamics in soil formation, due to the intermittent presence of water throughout the year. The soils of these pond areas are little known, which leads to the possibility of inappropriate use and management. The objective of this study was to describe the soils found in these two depressed areas morphologically, characterize them physically and chemically, and classify them to obtain information as a basis for more appropriate management practices. It was found the presence of soils classified as Organossolo Háplico Sáprico sódico (Sodic Sapric Haplic Histosol), Gleissolo Háplico Sódico vertissólico (Vertisolic Sodic Haplic Gleysol) (two profiles), Gleissolo Háplico Sódico típico (Typical Sodic Haplic Gleysol), Gleissolo Sálico Sódico vertissólico (Vertissolic Sodic Salic Gleysol), Planossolo Háplico Eutrófico solódico (Solodic Eutrophic Haplic Planosol), and Vertissolo Hidromórfico Sódico salino (Saline Sodic Hydromorphic Vertisol). These soils had grayish colors, typical of the intermittent hydromorphism observed in the areas, predominantly finer texture, arriving at clayey and very clayey textural classes, and predominantly massive structure. These aspects imply low aeration which, along with the high percentage of sodium saturation, point so major physical and chemical limitations. These aspects recommend its use as permanent preservation areas.

Histosol; Gleysols; Planosol; Vertisol