Characterization of wetland soils developed on limestones parent material In Cross River State, south eastern Nigeria

Abstract

Wetland soils developed on limestone parent materials were characterized and classified. In the study, eight (8) profile pits were sunk in 3 sites within Cross River State in 2006, described and sampled according to FAO (1988) guidelines. The samples were analysed in the laboratory using routine methods. Results obtained for morphological studies and physicochemical analysis showed that the soils were generally deep to shallow, moderately well drained to poorly-drained with weak red to light grey, Dark reddish brown to reddish brown, yellowish brown in colour. The
soils are weak, medium, and crumb, moderate and sub-angular blocky structure. The texture ranged from sandy loam, silt, loam, loamy sand, sandy clay and clay loam. Bulk density values ranged between 1.20 g/cm3 and 1.85 g/cm3 with a mean of 1.37 g/cm3. Particle density values ranged from 2.18 g/cm3 to 3.70 g/cm3 with a mean of 2.74 g/cm3. The soils showed total porosity of 50% on the average which indicated good soils for maximum plant growth. The soils are slightly alkaline to moderate alkaline in reaction. Organic matter, total nitrogen, Available phosphorus contents,
calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium contents were rated as low to moderate. An effective cation exchange capacity value of 10.36 cmol/kg was rated moderate with base saturation values above 82 per cent for these soils. The soils were classified as Inceptisols and Alfisols.