Abstract: | Spatial variability of Phosphorus contents in topsoils of two small catchments under agricultural use The spatial variability of total phosphorus (Pt) contents was investigated in two small agriculturally used catchments in Saxony/Germany. The mean Pt concentration was 982 mg kg–1, with 80 % of values between 560 and 1530 mg kg–1. The largest Pt contents were found at the tops and foots of slope, and the smallest at the middle slope positions. At the scale of slopes (microscale) the spatial variability was caused by the relief and soil properties, whereas at the scale of catchments, agricultural management had the largest influence. These differences must be considered for the modeling of diffuse P inputs to surface waters. |