Fig. 5.9 Lithic Haplogypsids (AD215)
Taxonomic classification: Lithic Haplogypsids, sandy, mixed, hyperthermic
The Al Dhagar series is a shallow sandy soil overlying bedrock (typically calcareous sandstone). The soils are typically moderately well to excessively drained. They occur on flats and gentle slopes within level to gently undulating deflation plains. They are formed from eolian sands overlying calcareous sandstone and occur in older landscapes.
These soils are used for rangeland grazing of camels though vegetation cover is frequently less than 5%. The major vegetation species recorded is Haloxylon salicornicum with, less often, Zygophyllum spp. and Stipagrostis plumosa.
The main feature of this soil is the shallow depth (<50cm) to a lithic contact. The soil material above the hardpan is sandy and contains a gypsic horizon. The shallow depth to the hardpan layer is the main restriction for this soil. This restricts water movement, moisture retention and presents a barrier to root development further restricting the availability of nutrients. The presence of gypsum also suggests that salinity might be a problem under irrigation. Soil subsidence may also be an issue as gypsum is leached from the soil under irrigation. This soil is considered unsuitable for irrigated agriculture.
Fig. 5.9 Lithic Haplogypsids (AD215)
Taxonomic classification: Lithic Haplogypsids, sandy, mixed, hyperthermic
The Al Dhagar series is a shallow sandy soil overlying bedrock (typically calcareous sandstone). The soils are typically moderately well to excessively drained. They occur on flats and gentle slopes within level to gently undulating deflation plains. They are formed from eolian sands overlying calcareous sandstone and occur in older landscapes.
These soils are used for rangeland grazing of camels though vegetation cover is frequently less than 5%. The major vegetation species recorded is Haloxylon salicornicum with, less often, Zygophyllum spp. and Stipagrostis plumosa.
The main feature of this soil is the shallow depth (<50cm) to a lithic contact. The soil material above the hardpan is sandy and contains a gypsic horizon. The shallow depth to the hardpan layer is the main restriction for this soil. This restricts water movement, moisture retention and presents a barrier to root development further restricting the availability of nutrients. The presence of gypsum also suggests that salinity might be a problem under irrigation. Soil subsidence may also be an issue as gypsum is leached from the soil under irrigation. This soil is considered unsuitable for irrigated agriculture.