Introduction / Context:
Climate and drainage strongly influence soil formation. In regions with persistent moisture and abundant vegetation, organic matter can accumulate faster than it decomposes, creating distinctive hydromorphic soils important to ecology and land use planning.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Environment: heavy rainfall, high humidity, vigorous plant growth.
- Waterlogging or poor drainage is common under such conditions.
- We match soils to formative environment.
Concept / Approach:
Under saturated, anaerobic conditions, plant remains only partially decompose, accumulating as peat within marshes, bogs, and swamps. These peat and marshy soils are rich in organic matter but often acidic, low in mineral nutrients, and compressible. By contrast, saline and alkaline soils form in arid to semi-arid settings with high evaporation and poor leaching. Black soils (vertisols) develop from basaltic parent materials in seasonal climates with swelling clays. Alluvial soils form from river deposits and span many climates but are not specifically tied to constant high humidity and waterlogging.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Relate climate (wet, humid) → low oxygen in saturated profiles.Low oxygen slows decomposition → organic matter builds up to form peat.Name the resulting soil: peat and marshy soil.Exclude arid or basalt-specific soils that do not match the stated environment.
Verification / Alternative check:
Wetland classifications and soil surveys consistently map peat/muck soils in high-rainfall, poorly drained landscapes such as coastal marshes and montane bogs.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Saline/alkaline: Typically in dry climates with evaporation > precipitation.Black soil: Associated with basaltic parent material and pronounced dry-wet cycles.Alluvial: Riverine deposition, not necessarily persistently waterlogged and humic.
Common Pitfalls:
Equating dense vegetation with high fertility; peat soils may be nutrient-poor and acidic despite lush growth.
Final Answer:
peat and marshy soil
Discussion & Comments