ИСТИНА

The systems approach is proposed for development of a universal hierarchical soil classification. Soil is considered as a self-sufficient system and as an element of a system of a higher level - a physical landscape. Landscape sphere represents the initial classification level. At levels I, II and III, change or constancy and type of vertical structure of landscapes as well as presence or absence of soils in landscapes are used as characteristics of division. These features characterize the “system landscapes” in general (Fig.1). At lower levels, properties of basic landscape elements, which are rocks, air, water, and organisms, responsible for properties of soils, are relevant. For example, these are megarelief, zonal type of vegetation, the density of rocks. Landscapes and soils are divided into classes and subclasses until all properties of landscape elements are homogeneous. Fig.1. Scheme of the soil-landscape classification For each class of soils and landscapes, the diagnostic properties are defined. The diagnostic properties of the land landscapes are the following: “Scheme of vertical structure: Air + Water – Soils - Rocks+ (Ground waters). In case of an abnormal amount of rain, short-term waterlogging of soils is possible”. The diagnostic properties of land soils are “The upper horizon is humus, muck or peaty; depth of a peaty horizon permits plant roots to achieve mineral rocks”. Therefore, the classification can function as a distinguishing system. The classification may have a time coordinate for the consideration of the age and development history of soils and landscapes. Thus, the classification structure becomes three-dimensional. With the development of the classification the problem of soil and landscape nomenclature could be solved as well. The classification is being developed as interactive and is being tested in the process of a multiscale GIS mapping. The pilot area is the European part of Russia. Mapping units are labeled by identification codes serving as connecting links between the maps and the classification. We propose a new type of soil classification and name it “soil-landscape” classification. Keywords: soil-landscape classification; interactive classification; characteristics of division; diagnostic properties; distinguishing system; system landscapes; elements of physical landscape