Study on morphological properties and classification of Kanaginhal sub-watershed in northern dry zone of Karnataka

Abstract

Total Twenty one soil profiles representing larger heterogeneity were studied for the morphological features. The sub-watershed was nearly level with moderate to severe erosion and drainage conditions. The results revealed that the Soil solum depth varied from 23 cm to more than 200 cm across pedons indicating that they are very shallow to very deep. All the pedons have A, B and C horizons. The A horizon is a ploughed layer indicated by horizon designation, Ap. The B horizon in the Vertisols indicate both structural (Bw) as well as slickensided (Bss) horizons. Clay texture and weak to moderate sub-angular blocky structure with many fine roots distributed in sub-surface horizons. The soil consistency was predominantly hard when dry, friable when moist, very stick and very plastic when wet. Pedons exhibited hue of 10YR, 7.5YR and 2.5Y throughout the profile and the dominant colour is black to very dark grey. Slickensides were observed in pedons 1, 3, 4, 5, 11, 12, 14, 16, 17 and 18 due to high clay content Soils were classified up to Family level. Taxonomically, the soils of the study area are classified under the orders Entisol, Inceptisol and Vertisol.