Soil salinity and moisture content under non-native Tamarix species

This study investigated, soil salinity and moisture content under the exotic Tamarix in the Olifants River, South Africa, where they predominantly occur. Soil electro-conductivity (EC) was mapped using the electromagnetic induction (EMI) device (EM38 sensor), in three transects laid along the river from as close to the water source outward towards the bank of the River at 50 m apart. This was supported by three soil EC and moisture measurements from each of the three transects at a soil depth of 0-100 cm at intervals of 10 cm using soil EC meter and Amplitude Domain Reflectometry (ADR) sensor, respectively. The highest salt concertation (3,000 mS/m or 19,500 ppm) was found at a depth of 30-40 cm under the dense Tamarix species. The highest soil moisture (20-40%) was also found at the same depth under the Tamarix, suggesting a hydraulic lift of water to the top 30-40 cm, where the Tamarix fine roots for water absorption occur. It also confirms that the distance from water point and Tamarix plant density affect salt leaching depth and amount of litter decomposition, respectively, which is the main source of salt deposition in soil.