PEDOGEOMORPHOLOGY, MICROMORPHOLOGY AND LAND USE IN THE TRIÂNGULO MINEIRO, BRAZIL

Abstract

The aim was to study the pedogeomorphology, soil micromorphology and the land use at Saudade stream watershed, Uberaba minicipality, Triângulo Mineiro region, Brazil. Physical, chemical and micromorphological analysis of soils were performed, as well as a landscape studies, supported by geoprocessing. The results showed that the geomorphology of the watershed is related to the local geology, which affects distinct soil classes and attributes, especially considering the Pgi (flat plateau) and Dt21 (wavy surface) Units. The soils are generally dystrophic, well-developed, oxidic, with high Al³⁺ and low P levels, typical of the Cerrado (savannah) biome. Two microstructures control the soils studied: strongly developed granular, in dominance; and blocky, which sometimes become granules. These characteristics are important for the soil structure and for the water recharge capacity. The landscape is distributed by annual crops in plateau (chapadão), which machinery is used in the land preparation, planting and harvesting (Pgi), and planted pasture (Dt21).

Keywords: Brazilian savannah, Earth mounds, Ferralsols (Oxisols).