Kalkreichen

Kalkreichen is a term used to describe rocks or soils that contain a high proportion of calcium carbonate. Calcium-rich materials, such as limestone, dolostone, and marl, form Kalkreiche rocks; in soils, calcareous or lime-rich soils develop from weathering of these rocks. The high carbonate content makes the material alkaline, often giving pH values above neutral, and shaping nutrient availability, drainage, and soil structure. In soils, calcareous conditions can lead to iron chlorosis in plants that cannot access iron at high pH, while favoring calcicole species that tolerate or require lime.

Geologically, Kalkreiche formations often occur in karst landscapes where dissolution of carbonate rocks creates features such as caves, sinkholes, and springs. Limestone and related rocks are widespread in many regions, including Europe, parts of Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Hydrology of Kalkreiche areas is typically well-drained; water percolates quickly through the carbonate-rich material, sometimes forming underground aquifers. In arid climates, caliche or calcrete may form near the surface, creating hard, cemented horizons.

Ecologically, lime-rich environments support distinctive plant communities, such as chalk or limestone pastures and calcareous grasslands, with species adapted to high pH and calcium-rich soils. These soils are also economically important: limestone is quarried for building materials, cement production, and agricultural liming to raise soil pH.