Laterite Soil

1.7.1.4 Laterite Soil

Description

Quick Overview

Laterite soil is a type of soil found in tropical and subtropical regions, characterized by high acidity and nutrient deficiency.

Standard

Laterite soil, derived from the Latin word 'later', meaning brick, is formed under tropical and subtropical climates with heavy rainfall and is often deficient in nutrients. It is prominent in regions such as the Western Ghats of India and supports various vegetation types based on local conditions.

Detailed

Laterite Soil

Laterite soil, derived from the Latin word later, meaning brick, is typically found in tropical and subtropical regions. It develops under conditions characterized by prolonged wet and dry seasons. Intense leaching due to heavy rainfall alters the soil's composition, generally leading to high acidity (pH < 6.0) and nutrient deficiency. The resultant soil varies from being nutrient-rich in areas with dense forests to nutrient-poor in regions with sparse vegetation. This soil supports diverse flora like deciduous and evergreen forests and can be beneficial for agricultural practices such as tea and coffee plantations when appropriate soil conservation techniques are applied, particularly in regions like Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. However, its exposure on slopes makes it prone to erosion and degradation.

Key Concepts

  • Formation of Laterite Soil: Laterite soil forms under heavy rainfall and alternating dry seasons.

  • Nutrient Deficiency: Laterite soil often lacks crucial nutrients needed for optimal plant growth.

  • Erosion and Conservation: Laterite soils are prone to erosion, making conservation techniques critical.

Memory Aids

🎡 Rhymes Time

  • In laterite soil, nutrients go away, due to leaching’s heavy sway.

πŸ“– Fascinating Stories

  • Imagine a rainy season where the nutrients of the soil wash away like a river stream, leaving the soil bare. This story of loss defines laterite soil's challenges.

🧠 Other Memory Gems

  • Remember to L.E.A.P: Laterite, Erosion, Acidic, Plants are limited.

🎯 Super Acronyms

LATER - Laterite And Tropical Erosion Risks.

Examples

  • Regions like the Western Ghats in India where laterite soil supports tea and coffee plantations.

  • The characteristic reddish color of laterite soil due to iron oxides and its clayey texture.

Glossary of Terms

  • Term: Laterite Soil

    Definition:

    Soil that develops in tropical and subtropical climates, characterized by leaching, high acidity, and nutrient deficiency.

  • Term: Leaching

    Definition:

    The process through which nutrients in the soil are washed away by rainwater.

  • Term: Acidic Soil

    Definition:

    Soil with a pH level of less than 7, which can affect nutrient availability for plants.