HISTIC EPIPEDON Meaning and
Definition
-
A histic epipedon refers to a specific type of soil horizon that is characterized by a thick, organic-rich layer. With a minimum thickness of 16 inches, this layer is typically composed of decomposed plant materials, such as peat, muck, or highly organic alluvium. The term "epipedon" is used in soil classification systems to describe the uppermost soil layer, which has undergone considerable organic decomposition.
Histic epipedons are usually found in areas with abundant water supply and high plant productivity, such as wetlands, marshes, bogs, and floodplains. The organic material in this layer generally contains a significant amount of fibrous plant residue, often including partially decayed roots, stems, and leaves. Due to the accumulation of these organic materials, histic epipedons tend to have a dark or black color.
The formation of histic epipedons is influenced by several factors, including climate, vegetation type, drainage conditions, and the input of plant debris. These horizons play a crucial role in soil fertility and moisture retention, as they have a high water-holding capacity and can store substantial amounts of nutrients. Histic epipedons are also important indicators of wetland ecosystems and are used to classify wetland soils.
Overall, the presence of a histic epipedon in a soil profile implies the dominance of organic matter accumulation in that specific layer, providing unique properties and functions within the soil ecosystem.
Common Misspellings for HISTIC EPIPEDON
- gistic epipedon
- bistic epipedon
- nistic epipedon
- jistic epipedon
- uistic epipedon
- yistic epipedon
- hustic epipedon
- hjstic epipedon
- hkstic epipedon
- hostic epipedon
- h9stic epipedon
- h8stic epipedon
- hiatic epipedon
- hiztic epipedon
- hixtic epipedon
- hidtic epipedon
- hietic epipedon
- hiwtic epipedon
- hisric epipedon
- hisfic epipedon
Etymology of HISTIC EPIPEDON
The word "histic" comes from the Greek word "histos", meaning "tissue" or "web-like structure". In the context of soil science, "histos" refers to the organic materials found in wetland soils, particularly peat.
The term "epipedon" is derived from the Greek word "epi", meaning "upon" or "on top of", and "pedon", meaning "soil". In soil taxonomy, an "epipedon" refers to the uppermost layer of soil which is usually rich in organic matter and has undergone certain soil formation processes.
Therefore, when combined, "histic epipedon" refers to the uppermost layer of soil in wetland areas that is primarily composed of organic materials, such as peat, and has distinct characteristics resulting from wetland conditions.
