The Relationship between Lithology and Chemical Characteristics of Soil and Soil Fertility Quality in the Taliabu Island Region, Indonesia

Abstract

Background: Soil fertility refers to the soil’s ability to provide essential nutrients for plant growth. This is largely determined by the process of lithological weathering, which involves the breakdown of parent rock. As the parent rock weathers, it releases different types of minerals into the soil, ultimately shaping the physical and chemical properties of the soil. These characteristics serve as the foundation for effective soil management, which is crucial for supporting a successful agricultural system. Through research on the impact of lithology and soil chemistry on soil quality, we gained a better understand and improve soil fertility. Methods: The assessment of soil fertility quality is based on two aspects: The type of mineral content in the parent rock and soil chemistry, which includes CEC, BS, pH and elements such as N, P and K. This research was conducted in Taliabu Island Regency, North Maluku Province, Indonesia from May to December 2021. Soil data were obtained through direct observation in the field and by collecting soil samples for laboratory analysis. Result: The research location’s lithology comprised two main groups: Sedimentary and volcanic rocks. Sedimentary rocks included young formations (alluvio-marine and alluvio-colluvium) and old formations (limestone, coral, marl mixtures, sandstone, gneiss and schist). Old volcanic rocks present were breccia, tuff, lapilli tuff, granite and granodiorite. Soil chemical analysis revealed low fertility status. Considering the source rock composition and soil chemical properties, the overall soil fertility status was categorized as low.