ECOLOGO-GENETIC FORMATION AND DISTRIBUTION PATTERNS OF MOUNTAIN BROWN SOILS IN THE TURKESTAN RANGE

Abstract

This study investigates the ecologo-genetic formation processes and natural distribution patterns of mountain brown soils developed in the mid-altitude zones of the Turkestan mountain range. Field observations, morphological analyses, and ecological comparison methods were applied. The results indicate that the formation of mountain brown soils occurs under the combined influence of relief, climate, vegetation cover, moisture regime, and parent material. With increasing altitude, climatic conditions become cooler, precipitation increases, and vegetation composition changes, leading to a transformation in the physicochemical properties of the soils. Based on morphological and genetic features, three main subtypes of mountain brown soils were identified: calcareous, typical, and slightly de-alkalized. These findings provide a scientific basis for understanding the ecologo-genetic development patterns of soils in mountainous regions and serve as a foundation for their sustainable use and conservation