On the role of biological factor in soil formation of the taiga zone

Abstract

Using a sample of soil formation during self-restoration succession at post-technogenic plot in the middle taiga subzone, we have discussed the following questions: soil as an ecosystemic component; main factor and principles of soil formation; resistance mechanism of ecosystem and its components. The studies were conducted at two sample plots which had formed under the same conditions on homogeneous technogenic material during self-restoration succession of perennial grassy and forest (alder) ecosystems. The theoretical approach was based on the principle of systematicity. In accordance with that principle, plant composition, productivity of plant community, microbe complex, composition of water-soluble substances, morphology and chemical characteristics of soils were surveyed. Plant community types were found to be associated with morphological structure and properties of newly-formed soils, as a result of biological factor and biological organic (plant) matter cycle. Complex investigation of soil formation during self-restoration succession of diff erent-type plant communities allowed for identifying soil formation as a formation process of biogenic-accumulative ecosystemic component which ensures stable self-reproduction of plant communities and whole ecosystem. Refs 19. Tables 7.