arenoso

Arenoso is a Spanish term used in geology and soil science to describe sediments or soils whose texture is dominated by sand. The word derives from arena, the Latin word for sand, with the suffix -oso indicating abundance. In Spanish-language soil classification, textures such as arenoso, francoarenoso, and franco-arenoso describe varying proportions of sand with lower amounts of silt and clay.

Sand particle size, by standard definitions, ranges from about 0.0625 to 2 millimeters in diameter. Arenoso soils typically contain a high proportion of particles in this size class and relatively little finer material. This texture yields a loose, gritty feel and affects behavior: high porosity and permeability, rapid drainage, and low water-holding and nutrient-retention capacity. Consequently, arenoso soils dry out quickly between rains and are more prone to erosion and wind transport; they also heat up rapidly.

Formation and distribution: Arenoso soils form where abundant sand is supplied by rivers, wind (aeolian processes), or marine deposits. They are common in coastal dunes, sandy plains, river terraces, and desert margins.

Management and uses: Their low fertility requires inputs such as organic matter and periodic fertilization to sustain crops. Irrigation, mulching, and crop selection oriented to drought tolerance are typical practices. In wild landscapes they support specialized vegetation adapted to well-drained soils.

Overall, arenoso describes a texture that strongly influences hydrology, fertility, and land-use options, reflecting the prominent presence of sand in the soil.