5.4 - Inceptisols | Soil Genesis and Development, Lesson 5 - Soil Classification and Geography

These soils are in the beginning stages of soil profile development. The differences between horizons are just beginning to appear. Some color changes may be evident between the emerging horizons, and the beginnings of a B horizon may be seen with the accumulation of small amounts of clay, salts, and organic material. These soils show more profile development than Entisols, but have not developed the horizons or properties that characterize other soil orders. Inceptisols are commonly found throughout the world, and are prominent in mountainous regions. The natural productivity of these soils varies widely, and is dependent upon clay and organic matter content, and other edaphic (plant-related) factors.

Key Characteristics: Inceptisols – Soil Profile Begins

The beginnings of soil profile development
Color differences between horizons starting to show
Prominent in mountainous areas, but occur almost everywhere
Widely variable productivity potential
Extent of world ice-free land area: 10%

U.S. Order Distribution Map for Inceptisols. *Image courtesy of USDA-NRCS*

**Further Detail by the NRCS**

Quiz

Question

Inceptisols are frequently found in which of the following types of geographic regions?‏

A. Grassland prairies and steppes

Incorrect: Check again! These soils are in the beginning stages of soil profile development. The differences between horizons are just beginning to appear. These soils show more profile development than Entisols, but have not developed the horizons or properties that characterize other soil orders. Check the Inceptisol soil distribution map for areas where this soil commonly occurs.

B. Coastal plains

Incorrect: Check again! These soils are in the beginning stages of soil profile development. The differences between horizons are just beginning to appear. These soils show more profile development than Entisols, but have not developed the horizons or properties that characterize other soil orders. Check the Inceptisol soil distribution map for areas where this soil commonly occurs.

C. Tropical deserts

Incorrect: Check again! These soils are in the beginning stages of soil profile development. The differences between horizons are just beginning to appear. These soils show more profile development than Entisols, but have not developed the horizons or properties that characterize other soil orders. Check the Inceptisol soil distribution map for areas where this soil commonly occurs.

D. Mountains and foothills

Correct: Yes! Inceptisols are commonly found throughout the world and are prominent in mountainous regions, especially near the tropical latitudes.

E. Wetlands and swamps

Incorrect: Check again! These soils are in the beginning stages of soil profile development. The differences between horizons are just beginning to appear. These soils show more profile development than Entisols, but have not developed the horizons or properties that characterize other soil orders. Check the Inceptisol soil distribution map for areas where this soil commonly occurs.

Looks Good! Correct: Yes! Inceptisols are commonly found throughout the world and are prominent in mountainous regions, especially near the tropical latitudes.