Pedogenesis and Soil Resources Investigation of Major Soil Series of Ramanathapuram District, Tamil Nadu, India

Detailed soil survey (DSS) was carried out in drought prone district of Ramanathapuram during April 2023 to find out the weathering pattern of the soil. Totally 4 soil profiles was excavated from Mandabam, Pudukudi, Paramakudi and Muthukulathur areas and studied for soil morphological characteristics. Soil samples was collected in each horizon and analysed for soil physical characteristics, chemical constituents and weathering indices by using the standard procedures. The results showed that soil colour were ranged from dark yellowish brown to dark grey with single grain to angular to sub-angular blocky structure. Soil consistency ranged from loose, hard to very hard, firm to very firm, sticky to very sticky, plastic to very plastic in dry and moist condition. The bulk density, hydraulic conductivity, infiltration rate ranged from 1.19 to 1.31 Mg m-3, 0.01 to 8 cm hr-1 and 0.02 to 8 cm/hr. The variations in molar ratios and weathering intensity were seen in all the profiles. The weathering pattern of the soils from different areas of the coastal district was identified.