Soils of the Tukulans on the Lena-Vilyui interfluve

This study investigates previously unexamined soils of the widespread sand massifs, known as tukulans, in Central Yakutia. The parent materials across large areas of the region consist of ancient alluvial deposits with light granulometric composition, dating back to the Quaternary period. During the Holocene, light-coniferous taiga began to form on these deposits; however, extensive areas along river valleys remained devoid of vegetation and were occupied by vast mass of wind-blown sands. Currently, under the influence of natural factors (climate dynamics) and anthropogenic impacts (forest fires, logging, and industrial development), there is a noticeable expansion of treeless areas, accompanied by the formation of young sand massifs. Simultaneously, the natural soil cover undergoes burial, whereas in areas devoid of vegetation, soils experience Aeolian degradation. The aim of this study was to analyze the composition and properties of the main soil types formed in both dynamic and those stabilized by vegetation within the Lena-Vilyui interfluve tukulans. The study employed comparative-geographical and profile-genetic methods, with the determination of key physicochemical soil parameters conducted using standard soil science methods. Results indicate that in areas dominated by light granulometric aeolian-ancient alluvial deposits, permafrost pine forest sandy soils with simple, weakly differentiated, complex polycyclic profiles are widespread. These profiles exhibit signs of burial. In relatively more humid post-fire areas, soil structure and properties are further influenced by cryoturbation processes. All soils are predominantly slightly acidic, characterized by low exchangeable base content and low humus levels. Cryoturbated soils are moderately acidic and display more pronounced iron illuviation and a uniform distribution of organic matter in the transformed soil profile. The replacement of typical taiga landscapes with “desert”-like surface formations drastically alters the vegetation and soil cover of the area, negatively affecting the ecosystem’s productivity.

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