Physical properties of termite mound soil in para rubber plantation of southern border provinces

Abstract

Most farming areas in southern part of Thailand are predominated by the para rubber plantation and termite mound are generally found in almost plantation area. Termites have peculiar activities in the soil and also lead to the significant changes in the soil properties. The objective of this research was to study the physical properties of termite mound soils in para rubber plantations. The soil in the area of southern border provinces i.e. Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwas was investigated. The collected samples were divided into top, center, and base. Additionally, the soil samples were collected at the distance of 5 meters away from the mound base. It was found that the termite mound soil was comprised of silty and clay soils with high moisture and density. Most of the soil particles were sandy soil and had good water absorption coefficient. The termite mound soils were weakly acidic and by this reason the electrical conductivity was at a level that does not affect the growth and production of plants. For agriculture improvement, termite mound soils can be mixed with other soils to retain moisture, absorb water and nutrients.