TITLE:
Comparison of MIR Spectral Signatures of Soils from Acacia, Eucalyptus, and Cassava Plantations in the Tropical Region of the Batéké Plateau (Republic of Congo)
AUTHORS:
Hugues-Yvan Gomat, Darius Martin Bengo, Suspense Averti Ifo, Clevie Thertully Balongana Mayassi, Emmanuelle Bokaketi, Ulrich Mayinguidi, Prosper Mabiala, Philippe Santenoise, Charles Epa
KEYWORDS:
MIR Spectroscopy, Acacia, Eucalyptus, Cassava, Soil Fertility
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Ecology,
Vol.14 No.12,
December
16,
2024
ABSTRACT: This study examines the effects of Acacia, Eucalyptus, and Cassava plantations on soil chemical composition in the Batéké Plateau, a tropical savanna region in Congo-Brazzaville. Using mid-infrared (MIR) spectroscopy, the research reveals distinct spectral signatures for each type of plantation, highlighting notable variations in soil chemical properties. Soils under Acacia exhibit increased organic nitrogen content, enhancing fertility through atmospheric nitrogen fixation. In contrast, soils under eucalyptus contain lignified organic matter, which is less biodegradable and limits immediate nutrient access but may contribute to long-term carbon storage. Cassava soils show high levels of silicates and labile components, indicating a risk of rapid nutrient depletion without proper management. The results underscore the importance of carefully selecting plant species to achieve sustainable soil management objectives and suggest that a combined MIR and NIR spectroscopy approach could enrich analyses by providing a more comprehensive view of soil variations based on vegetation cover.