Pedogenesis by clay dissolution on acid, low-grade metamorphic rocks under mediterranean forests in southern Tuscany (Italy)

Pedogenesis on acid, low-grade metamorphic rocks under well-developed forests was studied in the meso-mediterranean climatic zone. To that purpose three representative soil profiles on phyllite and sandstone under sclerophyllous oak, pine and heathland were selected. The major soil forming processes consisted of transformation of part of the K-mica (muscovite) to (hydroxy-interlayered) vermiculite and smectite, impoverishment both in major elements (A1, K, Mg and Fe) and fine particles, and redistribution of sesquioxides as organic complexes. These processes indicate clay hydrolysis under acid conditions and subsequent removal of solutes by lateral subsurface flow. The resulting impoverishment of the soil profiles could be mainly attributed to hydrolysis under acid conditions brought about by slow decomposition of organic matter. The proposed mode of pedogenesis deviates strongly from the current concept of fersiallitisation, and is probably restricted to acid parent materials in mediterranean climates where lateral removal of soluble weathering products is ensured throughout the largest part of the year.