Key Characteristics:
* High Calcium Carbonate Content: Pedocals are rich in calcium carbonate, which often forms a layer called the caliche horizon. This layer is typically hard and can impede water movement.
* Arid to Semi-Arid Climate: They form in regions with low rainfall and high evaporation rates, leading to the accumulation of calcium carbonate.
* Desert or Steppe Vegetation: Pedocals are typically found under sparse vegetation, such as desert shrubs and grasses.
* Alkaline pH: Due to the presence of calcium carbonate, pedocals have an alkaline pH (above 7).
* Limited Organic Matter: Low rainfall and sparse vegetation result in limited organic matter accumulation in the soil profile.
* Brown to Reddish Brown Color: The color is often influenced by the presence of iron oxides.
Additional Features:
* Horizons: Pedocals often exhibit distinct soil horizons, including an A horizon (topsoil), a B horizon (subsoil), and a C horizon (parent material).
* Structure: The structure can vary, but often includes crumb, blocky, or prismatic structures.
* Drainage: Drainage can be poor due to the presence of caliche, leading to the development of shallow root systems.
Important Note: While these properties describe pedocals, variations can occur depending on specific geological and climatic conditions within the western US.
