sapric

Sapric is a technical term used in soil science to describe a degree of decomposition of organic matter within an organic soil horizon. In a sapric horizon, the organic material is highly decomposed and plant remains are largely unrecognizable; the material often lacks visible fibers and appears very humified and amorphous. Sapric horizons typically have a dark color, a dense texture, and a relatively fine, structureless or massive appearance.

Sapric material forms under prolonged saturation and low-oxygen conditions that slow decomposition, such as in wetlands, peatlands, and muck soils. It is part of a decomposition continuum that also includes fibric horizons (least decomposed, with visible plant fibers) and hemic horizons (moderate decomposition with some fiber remnants). The identification of sapric material relies on the near absence of recognizable plant structures and the predominance of humic substances.

In soil classification, the presence of sapric material is a key criterion for characterizing organic soils, particularly within Histosols and related peat-like soils. The degree of decomposition influences properties such as nutrient dynamics, water holding capacity, and pH tendency, and it affects how a soil is managed for agriculture, restoration, or conservation.

While sapric horizons indicate advanced humification, they can occur in various environments where water saturation persists over long periods. Field assessment typically involves examining the horizon for fiber content, color, texture, and humified structure to distinguish sapric material from fibric or hemic layers.