Geochemical evidence of illuvial processes in clay-rich soils on limestones in a humid temperate climate

In environments with high precipitation, eluvial–illuvial processes play a key role in pedogenesis. Vertical translocation of clay leads to the formation an argic horizon. Such soils are global importance and formed on different rock substrates under climatic conditions. However, pedogenesis clay-rich developed limestone humid temperate climates has not been sufficiently investigated. Therefore, this study aimed evaluate geochemical mineral compositions properties Luvisols (10 profiles) from Dinaric karst region identify indicators processes. The differences between A, E, Bt horizons could be explained by pedogenic biorecycling, migration, isomorphic substitution minerals, surface adsorption or Al/Fe oxide precipitation soil solution. Illuviation is evident downward increase Al2O3, Fe2O3, MgO, K2O, Ba, Co, Cr, Ga, Ni, Sc, Th, U, V, Y, REE. Despite characteristics 10 studied profiles, outweighed heterogeneity sites probable contribution allochthonous material soil. We established new textural that explain among profiles light polygenetic origin pedological