gleysol

Gleysol is a soil order in the Canadian system of soil classification. These soils are characterized by the presence of gleying, a process that occurs in waterlogged conditions. Gleying results in the development of distinctive colors, typically mottled gray, blue, or olive green, due to the reduction of iron and manganese compounds. Gleysols are usually found in areas with poor drainage, such as bogs, fens, swamps, and low-lying depressions where water accumulates.

The defining characteristic of Gleysols is the evidence of saturation with water for extended periods, usually during the growing season. This saturation leads to anaerobic (oxygen-deficient) conditions within the soil. Under these conditions, microbial activity changes, and chemical reactions occur that alter the soil's color and chemical composition. The mottling pattern is a key indicator of fluctuating water tables and periods of both aerobic and anaerobic conditions.

Gleysols are often rich in organic matter, especially in the upper horizons, due to slow decomposition rates in waterlogged environments. The texture of Gleysols can vary widely, from sandy to clayey, depending on the parent material. These soils have significant ecological importance, supporting wetland ecosystems and serving as important habitats for various plant and animal species. They also play a role in hydrological processes, acting as natural filters and reservoirs. In agriculture, Gleysols may require drainage to become suitable for many crops, although some crops are adapted to these wetter conditions.