Amazonian dark earths : explorations in space and time /

The regenerative qualities identified in prehistoric, anthropogenic Amazonian dark earths suggest that notoriously infertile tropical soils can be greatly improved. Soil enhancement practices by ancient Amerindians allowed them to cultivate the land intensively, without needing to continually clear...

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Bibliographic Details
Corporate Author: SpringerLink (Online service)
Other Authors: Glaser, B. (Bruno), 1966- (Editor), Woods, William I. (Editor)
Format: eBook
Language:English
Published: Berlin : Springer, 2004.
Subjects:
Online Access:Connect to the full text of this electronic book
Description
Summary:The regenerative qualities identified in prehistoric, anthropogenic Amazonian dark earths suggest that notoriously infertile tropical soils can be greatly improved. Soil enhancement practices by ancient Amerindians allowed them to cultivate the land intensively, without needing to continually clear new fields from forest. As increasing populations place ever greater pressure on tropical forests, this legacy of rich, 'living' soils warrants further study in the search for high-yield, land-intensive, yet sustainable forms of management. The international group of contributors to this volume provides a variety of stances centering on aspects of the origin, distribution, variability, persistence, and use of Amazonian dark earths.
Physical Description:1 online resource (XIV, 216 pages.) : illustrations.
ISBN:9783662056837
3662056836