Pedogenic and Contemporary Issues of Fluvisol Characterization and Utilisation in the Wetlands of Bamenda Municipality, Cameroon

Abstract

Fluvisols in urban wetlands in Bamenda Municipality Cameroon play a vital role in vegetable production but they are under immense pressure. Seven representative soil profiles and 21 surface soil samples were morphologically and/or physico-chemically characterized to classify the soils, evaluate their agro-utilization constraints, and to provide adequate data for planning sustainable land management. The soil samples were analyzed using standard procedures. Critical levels established for tropical crops and vegetables were used to declare deficiency of soil nutrients. The coefficient of variation were used as an index of soil variability, while sources of soil variation and subsequent grouping into management units were identified using principal component analysis. The soils, classified as Humi-umbric fluvisols are developed from young alluvio-colluvial material of granitic origin. Like other physico-chemical properties, organic matter varied irregularly down the profile. Except of pH which was slightly (CV<15%) variable, most soil properties were moderately (CV=15-35%) to highly (CV>35%) variable. Some correlation coefficients between the soil parameters were highly significant (p<0.01) ranging - 0.95 to 0.99, but most of them have correlation values less than 0.5. Six principal components (PCs) grouping soils in management units explained 96.2% of the variations observed in the soil properties. The PCs were: base status, organic matter, weathering and moisture retention, acidity, dispersal and N-mineralization, and mineral neo-synthesis factors. We recommend that a detailed mapping of soil properties be carried out for the establishment of a soil fertility map; and individual soil management practices defined for identified units instead of a common management for all units in the municipality.