This study aimed to investigate the erosion processes effect on fertility parameters of mountainous chernozem-black soils in the Kedabek Region of Azerbaijan. The research area was characteristically of a predominantly mountainous relief, where surface erosion was widespread and represents a significant challenge to sustainable soil use and crop productivity. The collected soil samples from experimental plots revealed varying degrees of erosion for evaluating its extent and the prevailing effect on key fertility parameters. The presented results indicate that erosion disrupts the soil structure, reduces the functional capacity of arable lands, and eventually leads to a considerable decline in soil quality. Analytical results showed an increase in bulk and particle densities in eroded soils, which signified a correlation with the soil granulometric composition variations. Additionally, a consistent decrease in humus content and total nitrogen was evident across the soil profiles subjected to erosion. These variations underscore the detrimental effects of erosion on soil fertility and emphasize the need for targeted soil conservation and rehabilitation strategies in the studied region.
Soil fertility parameters, soil erosion, humus and nitrogen content, predominantly mountainous relief, soil structure, soil conservation
In the mountainous chernozem soils of the District Kedabek, soil erosion significantly affects the key fertility parameters. Eroded soils exhibited increased bulk and particle density, which has linkages with variations in soil granulometric composition. However, a marked decline prevailed in humus and nitrogen content across the soil profiles altered by erosion.