Determining the physicochemical properties of soil in the selected erosion sites in the rainforest ecosystem in Abia State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study determined the physico-chemical properties of soil in selected erosion sites in rainforest ecosystem in Abia State Nigeria. Conventional analytical methods were employed for the determination of these physicochemical parameters. Sand content was highest at Ikwuano LGA (82.2%), Ossah-Ibeku (77.2%).0 Ahiaeke (75.20%) and Amigbo (70.20%) were statistically similar. Results of clay contents (%) were significantly different in the following order; Amigbo Ubakala (16.40%) > Ossah Ibeku (13.40%), =Ahiaeke Ntugbu (11.40%) = Oloko (10.40%).For Nitrogen content, the two depths 0-15cm and 15-30cm were statistically similar, while the location (L) x Soil depth (D)treatment interactions were significantly different. For phosphorus content, Ossah Ibeku (20.60%) > Amigbo (14.25%) > Oloko (13.60%) > Ahiaeke (11.74).The difference in the mean potassium (%) content in the locations sampled was significant at P≥ 0.05 except Amigbo-Ubakala in Umuahia south LG.A. and Oloko in Ikwuano LG.A. which had statistically similar values. Potassium (k) content at (15-30cm) soil depth (0.136%) was significantly different from the (0-15cm) soil depth (0.0950%).Sodium (%) contents in Ossah Ibeku and Oloko were statistically similar. Sodium (%) contents decreased with increasing soil depth; the 0-15cm soil depth had higher sodium content (0.13%) than the 15-30cm soil depth (0.12%).Calcium content also decreased with increasing soil depth from 0-15cm depth (5.20%) to 15 - 30cm (4.30%).No significant difference existed between the mean magnesium (%) content of the soil depths (0.15cm and 15.30cm). The EA (%) capacity increased with soil depth. Location x Soil Depth (LxD) treatment interactions, the 0-15cm soil depth generally gave lower EA capacity than the 15-30cm soil depth at P≤ 0.05.

Keywords: Soil erosion, Rainforest ecosystem, Erodibility