Distribution of micro elements in an andisol profile in Takatoge, Kagoshima, Japan

Abstract The distribution of micro-elements (Zn, Mn, Cu, Co, and Ni) in an Andisol profile of Takatoge in Osumi Peninsula, Kagoshima, Japan was investigated and the factors that influence their distribution during the Andisol forming process were discussed. The upper part of the soil profile consisted of a new ash layer which was deposited from 1946 to 1995 A.D. and originated from Sakurajima volcano. Thirty soil samples were collected from the soil profile for the determination of total and extractable contents of the micro-elements. Total contents of Zn and Mn were almost uniform, but the distribution of total Cu, Co, and Ni was irregular throughout the profile. The ratio of the content of extractable Zn and Mn to that of the total content was very low. The most of Zn and Mn occurred in a non-extractable form (total minus extractable) which was related to the presence of pyroxenese in the fine sand fraction. The ratio of the amount of extractable Cu, Co, and Ni to that of their total was very high compa...