SOIL VARIABILITY IN A TROPICAL MOIST DECIDUOUS FOREST OF KERALA, INDIA

Abstract

This study examines the extent of interplot (10 x 10 m) variation in soil properties in a tropical moist deciduous forest of Kerala. Soil properties in their ascending order of variation are pH < sand+ silt + clay content < exchangeable bases < organic carbon < gravel content < exchange acidity. The variations in all properties except pH and sand + silt + clay content are found to be statistically significant. Percentile distribution of all properties except exchange acidity is higher at the medium range and starts decreasing towards the extremities.