Characterization, Classification And Evaluation Of Some Wetland Soils Of Oguta, Imo State, South-East Nigeria

ABSTRACT

Characterization, classification and evaluation of some Wetland soils of Oguta, Imo State Southeast Nigeria were executed. The aim was to have baseline information that will assist farmers and other land users in well informed decision making. Four profile pits was dug on the study area Osse moto Oguta. Free sampling technique was used. With the aid of Global Positioning System (GPS) and soil sampling tools. Soil samples were collected based on the FAO guidelines for profile description. The results revealed that Loamy Sand is the dominant texture of the soils of the area. Soil reaction (pH in water) varied from strongly acid to slightly acid (5.18 to 6.74), organic carbon varied from low to moderately low (0.02 to 1.12 %) in the study area. Total nitrogen varied from very low to low (0.003 to 0.050 %), available P varied from very low to low (0.70 to 11.20 ppm), exchangeable bases (Ca, Mg, k and Na) were generally low (Ca: 0.10 to 2.30 cmol/kg; Mg: 0.13 to 1.65 cmol/kg; K: 0.117 to 0.142 Cmol/kg; and Na: 0.174 to 0.255 Cmol/kg). ECEC varied from very low to low (2.000 to 7.424 cmol/kg). Base saturation varied from very low to moderately low (13 to 68%). Good and appropriate knowledge of wetland is important for optimum use of the soils for arable crop production. On the account of all the soils properties studied, as criteria for the soil classification after careful examination, the soils were classified as Inceptisols (USDA) or Cambisols (FAO/WRB). The degree of variability among soil properties was ascertained using coefficient of variation, while the relationship existing between them was estimated using correlation matrix. The soils were evaluated to know its suitability for arable crop production, and was found to be moderately suitable. It was found out that the soil is suitable for agriculture, but cannot efficiently sustain arable crop production.