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Morphology and Genesis of Calcisols¹

ABSTRACT

This paper outlines principal characteristics of a group of soils that occur mainly in the arid and semi-arid regions. They have been derived from parent materials high in calcium carbonate. An outstanding characteristic of these soils is a prominent horizon of calcium carbonate accumulation at or near the depth of rainfall penetration. The term Calcisols is proposed for this group of soils. Field descriptions and laboratory data are presented for Calcisols and some closely related types. Genetic processes in the formation of the soils are discussed, especially the apparent effects of calcium carbonate in retarding weathering processes and precluding the formation of silicate clay minerals.

¹ Contribution from the Soil Survey, Soil Conservation Service, U.S.D.A. Presented before Div. V, Soil Science Society of America, Davis, Calif., Aug. 7, 1955.

² Soil Correlator, Arizona and Nevada, Soil Survey, Soil Conservation Service, U.S.D.A.

Received for publication October 9, 1956. Accepted for publication April 4, 1957.