Contribution of pedology and geomorphology to the ecological planning of Kimpolo I ecosystems and its surroundings (Democratic Republic of Congo)

Abstract

The ecosystems of Kimpolo I village and its surroundings are located 23 km east of Kinshasa on the western edge of the Bateke Plateau. To better understand the contribution of its soils and its relief to the ecological planning of its natural ecosystems, a soil analysis and a geomorphological map of this area have been carried out. This study was conducted using soil samples from environmental ecosystems and satellite geographic data collected in the field. On 15 soil samples from different horizons of four profiles, the analysis indicates that the texture of these soils is more than 85% sandy, the pH-H2O and KCl vary from strongly to moderately acidic, the carbon contents Organic matter levels are low, organic matter levels correspond to very low productivity and the Carbon-Nitrogen ratios indicate that there is either a predominance or a balance between mineralization and nitrogen release in horizons and cation exchange capacities. Reveal that these soils are sandy. Geomorphologically, spatial data processing informs that contour lines are spaced in the middle of the site, attesting to the existence of the plain and narrowed after watercourses before re-spacing to mark the sinusoidal change in relief. In view of the human activities practiced in the site which have a negative impact on the soils and the relief, particular attention must be given to these degraded ecosystems, with a view to their ecological planning.