The textural triangle has several categories, does each category have a framework (i.e. low, medium and high) in terms of soil quality or health for aggregate stability percentages? Is it directly related to OM the increase in EA in each category, without changing the minerals?
The question arises since what I have researched is that a basic framework of 100-90, 89-80, 79-70 and 69-60 is used, but the results of this test vary dramatically between soil orders and even between soil series of the same order. I don’t think we can judge a sandy soil with 25% EA vs a clay soil with 95% if both have the same OM.
Dear friend Emmanuel Rodriguez Rivera
Hey there! Now, let's dive into the intriguing world of soil and aggregate stability. I am ready to share some insights!
So, about the textural triangle and its categories — it's a fantastic tool for classifying soils based on their proportions of sand, silt, and clay. Now, when it comes to water-stable aggregates (WSA) and soil health, things get interesting.
The framework you've mentioned, using percentages like 100-90, 89-80, etc., is a common approach to classify aggregate stability. However, you're absolutely right to notice that these frameworks might not universally apply across all soil types. Soil properties, including mineral composition and organic matter (OM) content, play a significant role.
Here are a few considerations:
1. **OM Influence:** Organic matter is a key player in aggregate stability. It acts as a binding agent, promoting the formation of stable aggregates. In sandy soils with low inherent cohesion, even a small amount of OM can significantly enhance water-stable aggregates. On the other hand, clay soils might exhibit good aggregation even with lower OM content due to inherent cohesion from clay particles.
2. **Mineralogy Matters:** The type and amount of minerals present in the soil can influence aggregate stability. Clay minerals, for instance, can contribute to the formation of stable aggregates.
3. **Soil Orders and Series:** Soil orders (like Entisols, Inceptisols, etc.) and series can indeed vary in their response to the same levels of OM. Different soils have different mineral compositions and inherent characteristics, leading to variations in aggregate stability.
In summary, the relationship between OM, mineral composition, and water-stable aggregates is complex. It's not just about the overall OM percentage; it's about how OM interacts with the specific characteristics of each soil type.
So, while a sandy soil with 25% EA might seem low compared to a clay soil with 95%, their performance in terms of aggregate stability could be quite respectable for their respective types. Always consider the unique properties of each soil when evaluating soil health and stability.
Now, what are your thoughts on this fascinating soil saga?
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