Abstract
Erosion and the deposition of colluviums are global phenomena. Despite their wide-spread occurrence and their important ecological functions as matter sinks and sources, the characteristics underlying these functions have been little examined. In a comparative study we compiled soil profile and greenhouse gas exchange data from 15 plots at 5 sites in the "Württembergisches Allgäu" of both colluvial and non colluvial origin. We found that despite strong fertilization upland colluvial sites in the investigated area tended to emit no methane and nitrous oxide. Riparian colluvial plots were strong methane sources compared to non colluvial plots. There is a need for a systematic survey of the ecological functions of colluvial soils. Our examinations suggest that geomorphic and soil morphologic parameters can be used to infer information on soil ecological functions.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 87-99 |
| Number of pages | 13 |
| Journal | Zeitschrift fur Geomorphologie, Supplementband |
| Volume | 139 |
| Publication status | Published - 1 Dec 2005 |
| Externally published | Yes |
Austrian Fields of Science 2012
- 507006 Cultural landscape research