Gelisols

Gelisols

1. Composition

   • Permafrost within 1-2m of surface
   • Evidence of cryoturbation or ice segregation
   • Accumulation of organic matter that decomposes very slowly or not at all
   • Histic Epipedon: Surface horizon of organic matter saturated with water

2. Location

   • Ex: Antarctica, Alaska, Canada and Russia
   • Found in areas that are consistently 0 degrees Celsius or below
   • There is no set amount of precipitation for gelisols to exist

3. Vegetation

   • Mosses
   • Lichen
   • Sedges
   • Tundra Grasses

4. Economic Benefit

   • Limited economic impact - no crop growth, low population living in the area
   • Animals like Caribou are supported by the lichens and grasses grown in the soil, and predators (wolves, humans, etc.) eat these herbivores.
     • Hunted and eaten
     • Killed and sold for meat/fur