Characterization and classification of soils developed on coastal plain sands in Oruk- Anam, Akwa Ibom State
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Soil characterization is critical in optimizing cocoa production, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa where growers are faced with low and fluctuating cocoa yields due to several challenges, prominent among which is soil nutrient management. This study characterized
and classified soils formed from coastal plan sands for cocoa production in Oruk-Anam LGA, Akwa Ibom State. Using free soil survey method, the study area was delineated and four soil profile pits were dug. Soil samples were collected from diagnostic horizons, labeled and analyzed for physical and chemical properties. Findings revealed very dark gray (10YR 3/2) surface to dark brown (10YR 3/3) and yellowish brown (10YR 5/4) sub surface horizons. Surface texture ranged between loamy sand and sandy loam over sandy loam and sandy clay loam subsurface soils. Both the surface and subsurface soils showed low pH in water (4.95- 4.98), indicating high acidity. Furthermore, total nitrogen was low, while available P was moderate. The results also indicated that all the exchangeable cations were all low. The clay minerals identified were quartz (85.2 %), kaolinite (13.6 %), anatase (0.3 %), magnetite (0.4 %) and goethite (0.4 %). The soils were classified as Ultisols and correlated with FAO-WRB as Acrisols. Liming, application of crop residues, the use of organic and organo-mineral fertilizers, biochar application could enhance proper soil management and aid in the removal of the current limitations.
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