MIRES OF THE ALTAI REPUBLIC: DISTRIBUTION, FEATURES OF PEAT DEPOSITION, PROPERTIES OF PEAT DEPOSITS, USES

Abstract

Physico-geographical conditions in the territory of the Altai Republic determine the degree of peat formation in North, Central and South-Eastern regions and the properties of peats. A distinctive feature of the deposits is the high ash content of peat throughout the profile, up to the formation of mineral layers. The deposit thickness ranges from 0.3 to 4.5 meters. Peat forms over the eluvium or eluvium-deluvium of dense crystalline rocks. Peculiarities of the water and mineral nutrition of alpine mires define the distinctive properties of their peat as compared to West Siberian mires: a high degree of decomposition, good supply of nutrients, as well as a high content of humic acids. Such a pattern is typical for both eutrophic and mesotrophic mires. Peat properties change towards the SouthEastern region of the Altai Republic for a higher alkalinity, increase in total exchangeable bases, and an increase in humic acids in organic matter. At the same time, the thickness of peat deposits declines.

Keywords

• altai republic
• mire formation conditions
• peatlands
• peat
• peat deposit
• agrochemical characteristics
• organic matter
• uses