Proposals to the Russian soil classification system on the basis of the analysis of the soil map of the Russian Federation (1 : 2.5 m scale, 1988)

The analysis of the Soil Map of the Russian Federation (1 : 2.5 M scale, 1988) with identification of soils shown in each polygon in categories of the classification system of Russian soils (2004, 2008) is the first stage of work on creating the new digital soil map of Russia. It demonstrated the need to introduce a number of amendments to the classification system. They concern the definitions and names of diagnostic horizons and diagnostic features of soils. Thus, it is suggested that the mucky-dark humus horizon AH should be renamed as the mucky-humus horizon (as its properties do not fit the definition of the dark humus horizon in the system). Several new diagnostic features are introduced; for permafrost-affected soils, supra-permafrost accumulation of organic matter is designated by symbol cro. It is also suggested that the lists of soils at the subtype level, which reflects the development of certain diagnostic features, should be more flexible without their "rigid" linking to the given types. The aim of these changes is to reflect the accumulated information on the diversity of soils in Russia as displayed on the Soil Map of the Russian Federation (1988) and in the State Register of Soil Resources more adequately in the new classification system of Russian soils.