Impacts of soil carbon on hydrological responses – a sensitivity study of scenarios across diverse climatic zones in South Africa

Soil organic carbon (SOC) content and the water holding capacity of soils are two properties which link hydrological cycles. Hydrological model inputs seldom include soil as a parameter even though is known to influence retention capacities. This study sensitivity analysis changes in responses when different percentages for topsoil horizon. Sensitivities such transpiration, runoff volumes, stormflow component extreme events SOC were quantified under various climatic conditions South Africa. The capacities at drained upper limit (i.e. field capacity), permanent wilting point saturation calculated horizon, using dependent pedo (soil)-transfer functions scenarios locations These variables, together with other pre-determined soil- locationrelated inputs, well 50 years daily climate, then used process-based model. Overall, it was found that increased horizon leads an increase reduction runoff, especially its component, events. However, these relatively small compared particularly rainfall amount distribution.Significance:
 
 Organic cycles.
 Management interventions lead win-win situations because, addition climate change mitigation, plant availability improves, overall surface ‘flashiness’ becomes more regulated.
 While distribution over space time remain most critical determinants responses, increases transpiration thus growth, hence severe flooding events.