The expansion of the field-diagnostic characterisation of sub-hydric soils (classification according to KA 5 standard) requires the need for horizontally stable sampling of sub-hydric samples. Current methods make it difficult to obtain a comprehensive pedological description of the sampling site and to obtain high-quality, horizontally stable samples. These are necessary in order to be able to clearly address and describe the soil-forming processes and different horizons.
The use of scientific divers for soil characterisation and high-quality sampling is a challenge, but offers great potential for soil research in sub-hydric environments.
Requirements for undisturbed soil sampling:
- Use of specialists: soil and geoscientists / scientific divers
- Documentation and classification based on KA 5 and on undisturbed soil outcrops
- Horizontally stable, undisturbed sampling and safe transport under water and on land
- Compliance with all safety-relevant standards during the dives
- Acquisition of sufficient sample material for documentation and soil analysis
- Practicable time management for efficient dive planning and organisation of work processes (dive entry points, equipment, etc. dive-specific requirements)
Based on these requirements and conditions, a concept and additional equipment for sound and reliable sampling of sub-hydric soils/sediments were developed in cooperation with the company terraf, which will be further expanded and tested.
The use of scientific divers makes it possible to gain insights into waters that would otherwise be difficult to observe. For example, freshwater sponges that were not expected in these waters have already been discovered during some sampling dives as part of the environmental mapping and characterisation.
Valuable insights were gained during the investigations, which have been incorporated into the current classification of soils. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of F. Franzke (terraF IB), the topic of sub-hydric soils was able to fill a chapter (Klasse J: Subhydrische Böden) in the current pedological illustrated book "Böden Deutschlands, Österreichs und der Schweiz".
publications:
- L. Hohenstein, F. Franzke, S. Pose, T. Grab, T. Fieback. (2023)
Subhydrische Böden- Dokumentation und Probenahme durch wissenschaftliche Taucher
Jahrestagung der Deutschen Bodenkundlichen Gesellschaft, 06.09.2023, Halle(Saale) - Sinapius, R., Joisten, H., Franzke, F., Schad, P. (2023).
Klasse J: Subhydrische Böden. In: Joisten, H., et al. Böden Deutschlands, Österreichs und der Schweiz.
Springer Spektrum, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-8274-2284-2_52