HYDRIC SOIL Meaning and
Definition
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Hydric soil refers to a specific type of soil that is characterized by its formation under saturated or waterlogged conditions. These soils are found in areas where there is a high water table, excessive water drainage, or poor drainage, which leads to prolonged soil saturation. The term "hydric" is derived from the Greek word "hydor" meaning water, highlighting the relationship between the soil and the presence of water.
Hydric soils exhibit distinct physical and chemical properties that set them apart from well-drained soils. Due to the high water content, they typically have a dark color, indicating low oxygen levels and reduced organic matter decomposition. The saturated conditions often lead to the development of anaerobic conditions, where soil microorganisms decompose organic matter using alternative processes that produce methane gas.
Additionally, hydric soils have a high water-holding capacity due to their fine texture and increased clay content. They retain water for longer periods, which supports the growth of plants adapted to wet environments. The prolonged soil saturation creates favorable conditions for wetland vegetation, such as marshes, swamps, and bogs.
Identifying hydric soils is crucial for understanding and managing wetland ecosystems, as they serve as indicators of wetland presence. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has developed a series of soil criteria and indicators to determine if a soil is hydric. These criteria help classify and delineate wetlands for regulatory purposes and aid in the protection and conservation of wetland habitats.
Common Misspellings for HYDRIC SOIL
- gydric soil
- bydric soil
- nydric soil
- jydric soil
- uydric soil
- yydric soil
- htdric soil
- hgdric soil
- hhdric soil
- hudric soil
- h7dric soil
- h6dric soil
- hysric soil
- hyxric soil
- hycric soil
- hyfric soil
- hyrric soil
- hyeric soil
- hydeic soil
- hyddic soil
Etymology of HYDRIC SOIL
The word "hydric" in "hydric soil" comes from the Greek word "hydor", meaning water. "Hydric" is derived from the Greek word "hudōr" (ὕδωρ) which means "water". As for "soil", it comes from the Old English word "sōl" and has Indo-European roots. Together, "hydric soil" refers to soil that is characterized by its ability to hold and retain water for extended periods, often associated with wetland environments.
