lithosols

Lithosols are a type of soil that is characterized by a thin layer of soil overlying bedrock. They are formed through the process of weathering, where rocks and minerals are broken down into smaller particles that can be easily deposited and compacted. This process occurs relatively recently in geological time, usually within the last 10,000 to 20,000 years.

Lithosols are typically found in areas with minimal soil cover, such as rocky outcrops, hillsides, and mountainous regions. They can be composed of a wide range of parent materials, including granite, basalt, and sandstone. Due to their limited soil depth, lithosols have limited soil horizon development and thus may lack distinct soil layers.

The characteristics of lithosols can vary depending on the parent material and the level of weathering that has occurred. In general, lithosols tend to be well-drained and low in organic matter. They also tend to have a low cation exchange capacity, which affects the ability of the soil to retain nutrients and water.

Due to their rugged terrain and limited soil cover, lithosols are often difficult to cultivate and can be marginal for plant growth. However, they can support a wide range of plant species that are adapted to these conditions. In some areas, lithosols have been used as landforms and other design elements in landscape architecture.

The classification of lithosols is part of the World Reference Base for Soil Resources (WRB) soil classification system. They are assigned the code "Li" in the WRB system. The study of lithosols is an important area of research in soil science, as it provides insights into the processes of weathering and soil formation.