Morphological and Physical Characterization of Semi-Arid Soil of Dutse, Jigawa State, North Western Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33003/fjs-2026-1015-5933Keywords:
Morphological, Soil Properties, Semi-Arid Zone, DutseAbstract
Soil characterization is fundamental for understanding soil genesis, classification, agricultural potential, and sustainable land management. This study characterized the morphological and physical properties of selected soils in the semi-arid environment of Dutse, Jigawa State, Nigeria. A semi-detailed soil survey was conducted at a scale of 1:50,000. Three representative pedons (FUD-P1, FUD-P2, and FUD-P3) was described following the USDA Soil Survey Manual. The coordinates of the pedons were recorded using a Global Positioning System (GPS), while Locus Map version 4.29 (Asamm Software) was used to delineate the study area. The soils colour varied from yellowish brown (10YR7/4) to reddish brown (7.5YR5/3) in both topsoil and subsoil of all the pedons. Soil texture varied from loamy sand to sandy loam, with sand content ranging from 70.0 to 82.0%.with highest value in FUD-PI. Bulk density values ranged from 1.19-1.68 Mg m⁻³. Water-holding capacity ranged from 40 to 60% in both topsoil and subsoil while total porosity varied from 35.20 to 55.26%. Gravimetric moisture content increased with depth, particularly in FUD-P3, indicating its higher clay content and lower bulk density. Significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) were observed in sand content and bulk density among the pedons, whereas differences in porosity and moisture content were not significant (p > 0.05). The silt: clay ratio exceeded 0.15 in all pedons, indicating weak soil profile development and signifying that the soils are at an early stage of Pedogenesis. There is need for appropriate soil management for sustainable use of the land.
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