Genesis, Classification and Land Reclamation Potential of West Nubaria Soils, Egypt

Detailed Pedagogical studies were carried out on the soils west of Nubaria in Mariut District, Egypt, in order to classify these soils and to plan for their reclamation. Three main soil associations were identified: (a) lowlands, (b) terraces and (c) highlands. Soils of associations (a), and (c) were classified as Entisols, in sandy over fine-loamy, calcareous, thermic, Typic Torriorthent; and loamy skeletal, thermic, Lithic Torriorthent, respectively. Those of association (b), as Aridisols, in fine-loamy, calcareous, thermic, of Typic Calciorthids and Gypsiorthids. The clay minerals are mainly attapulgite and smectite, with some kaolinte and 10Ao minerals. Chlorite was also found in some samples. Quartz and feldspars are present as accessory minerals in the clay fraction. CaCO3 content (22 to 65%) of the clay fraction affects some soil properties such as the CEC, available moisture, and slow soil development. Soils of association (a), and (b) are expected to respond easily for reclamation except for some management problems. Soils of association (c), have very limited suitability for cultivation because of their very shallow loamy-skeletal profiles