The influence of mor forming vegetation and time on clay mineral genesis : A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Diploma of Agricultural Science in the University of Canterbury [Lincoln College]

Abstract

The effects of time and a vegetation cover of Red Beech (Nothofagus fusca) on clay mineral genesis have been studied on a sequence of terrace soils near Reefton. The soils, which are of similar origin, are developed on siliceous parent material originating from Pleistocene fluvio glacial outwash. During warmer interglacial periods the river has cut a series of terraces of differing heights.

Profiles were sampled at varying distances from beech trees and analysed for their clay mineral content.