humuskerrokseen
Humuskerrokseen is a term used in soil science to describe the humus layer of soil, the upper, organic-rich part that forms from the accumulation and decomposition of plant and animal matter. In Finnish usage, the word highlights the horizon that lies above mineral soil and often corresponds to the O-horizon in soil classification. The layer is typically dark and loose, with high concentrations of organic carbon and nutrients, and it varies in thickness from a few to several tens of centimeters depending on vegetation, climate, and land use.
Formation and composition occur as litter such as leaves, needles, moss, and dead organisms accumulate and are
Function and importance include its role in soil structure and stability, carbon storage, nutrient buffering and
Disturbances and management are crucial considerations. Logging, drainage, soil compaction, fire, and climate change can reduce
See also: humus, soil horizon, O-horizon, soil organic layer.