The structure, consistence, porosity, clay films, hydraulic conductivity, and water retention of soils with Nitic horizons and soils with both Nitic and Ferralic horizons were studied in-depth with the objective of contributing to the ongoing discussion on problems with the classification of "Nitossolos" (Nitisols) in Brazil. The hydrophysical performance of the studied horizons is intimately related to the soil structure type and grade and to the amount and distinctness of the clay films. Horizons characterized as nitic ("B nítico") presented strong or moderate subangular blocky structures and moderate and abundant to moderate and common clay films. These morphological attributes determined a low development of structural pores (macropores) and, consequently, lower hydraulic conductivity values and a higher development of textural pores (micropores) that favor water retention processes. On the other hand, horizons classified as ferralic ("B latossólico") are formed by a moderate or weak subangular blocky structure, with or without the presence of granular structure, and no or faint common clay s-kins. Horizons with these morphological attributes present highly developed structural pores (macropores) that favor water conducing processes (high hydraulic conductivity) and less developed textural pores (micropores) diminishing water retention characteristics.
Nitisol; ferralic horizon; clay skin; shiny peds; soil structure; aggregates
