Variability in the properties of soils on two toposequences in northern Ghana

Abstract

The variability in the properties of five Lixisols _Tingoli, Tolon and Kumayili series on toposequence 1; Kpelesawgu and Changnalili series on toposequence 2 _ was studied to ascertain the natural differences in the soils. The Tingoli and Tolon series accumulate more in situ formed nodules with greater bulk density. Moisture storage is greater in the toposequence 2 soils because of poor internal drainage. Kaolinite is the dominant clay mineral in the toposequence 1 soils. Illite is dominant in the toposequence 2 soils, especially in the Changnalili series, serving as K reserve source. The nodules have high concentrations of haematite and goethite, implying greater maturity. Soils on toposequence 1 are more weathered with more pronounced desilication. Organic carbon accumulation and effective CEC in the toposequence 2 soils are relatively greater because of poor internal drainage, which hinders organic matter decomposition. The toposequence 1 soils show reddish colouration because of better internal drainage.


Ghana Jnl agric. Sci. Vol.30(2) 1997: 115-126