Cryptopodzolic Soils in Switzerland

Cryptopodzolic Soils are characterized by a thick blackish-brown mineral horizon rich in organic matter, the dark colour of which masks the morphological characteristics of podzolization. Little is known about the specific site factors that lead to the formation of these soils. Four representative soil profiles from a typical toposequence between 1700 and 500 m above sea level in southern Switzerland, embracing Haplic Podzols, Humic Cambisols and Cryptopodzolic Soils, are described morphologically, chemically and physically. The Cryptopodzolic Soils in this region are characterized by weak to moderate A1 and Fe translocation, and by a uniform incorporation of organic matter deep into the soil. The most prominent feature is the exceptional stability of the soil organic matter with a maximum in the spodic horizon. All these characteristics can be explained by the unique combined effect of a mild, wet climate, an Fe- and Al-rich acid bedrock and a litter layer providing dissolved organic matter rich in polyphenolic substances with strong metal-binding properties.