Aiming to evaluate the influence of the clay fraction mineralogy on the physical properties of Latosols (Oxisols) from southeastern Brazil, seven Latosols, representative of this group, were selected from the states of Minas Gerais and Espírito Santo, having distinct morphological features associated with soil structure. The sampling of soils was performed in the latossolic B horizon, with disturbed and undisturbed samples being collected. Chemical, physical and mineralogical characterizations were performed in the laboratory. Regression and correlation analyses taking into account the results of the various characterizations showed that the physical properties associated with soil structure are markedly influenced by the mineralogical composition of the clay fraction of Latosols. The Al effect on the physical properties was more pronounced than the Fe effect. Kaolinitic Latosols present higher bulk density, lower water aggregate stability, smaller macroporosity and permeability values when compared to gibbsitic Latosols. The permeability of the studied Latosols increases with the clay content.
bulk density; aggregates stability; soil porosity; water infiltration