AGROGENICALLY TRANSFORMED SOILS - EVOLUTION AND TAXONOMY

The principles and structure of classification of agrogenically transf ormed soils are outlined. This classification is a part of the new bas ic substantive genetic taxonomic system developed at the Dokuchaev Soi l Science Institute. Agrogenic transformations result in the developme nt of new profiles with specific sets of diagnostic horizons that have no analogues among natural soils. In accordance with the degree and c haracter of agrogenic transformation, either individual agrotypes are specified within the same taxa of high level (orders) with natural soi ls, or new orders are provided for agrogenic soils with a subsequent s ubdivision at the type level. Criteria for orders, types, subtypes, an d species of agrogenically transformed soils are presented in order to emphasize the difference in taxonomy between natural and transformed soils.