Micropaleontological Methods for Studying Biogenic Silica in Soils

摘要

Brief characteristics of some micropaleontological methods applicable in soil science,paleopedology,and archeological pedology for studying biogenic silica are presented (data on spicules of sponges,diatoms,and phytoliths).Spicules of sponges are rather lithogenic features,whereas diatoms widely occur in all soils.Differences in the diversity of species inhabiting clays and soils are shown.Special consideration is given to phytolith analysis (the content of phytoliths in soils,their distribution within the profile) and its applicability in paleopedology.