Evolution of Sandy Soils within Deflation Hollows in Shifting Areas of Sand - A case study from the Błȩdów Desert (Poland)

Abstract

Areas of shifting sand are important places for testing the effects of abiotic and biotic factors on soil morphology and evolution, where aeolian processes cause dynamic changes in the natural environment. The main aim of the study was to determine the evolution of soils within deflation hollows in shifting sands. In the context of this purpose, representative study areas were selected: (1) a reference surface in a plantation forest with soils undisturbed by aeolian processes - one pedon, (2) an active deflation hollow - two pedons, (3) a deflation hollow stabilized by reforestation (forest planting ca. 30 and ca. 100 years ago - two pedons). Soil morphology and micromorphology as well as several physical and chemical properties were analyzed. In a deflation hollow, the studied soils are found at various stages of development, mostly characterized by a relatively rapid accumulation of soil organic matter. A well-developed buried illuvial B horizon as an 'ortstein' material can limit aeolian erosion to a certain depth, while above these horizons aeolian erosion and accumulation remain active. History of changes in the environment is to a substantial degree reflected in morphology and micromorphology of the studied soils.