Final answer:
The most common soils in the tropics are Oxisols and Ultisols. They are characterized by high weathering, nutrient deficiencies, and a composition rich in iron and aluminum oxides. Appropriate management can improve their agricultural productivity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Common Types of Soils in the Tropics and Their Characteristics
The most common types of soils found in the tropics are Oxisols and Ultisols. These soil types have several key characteristics that are shaped by the tropical climate. Oxisols are highly weathered soils with a heavy concentration of iron and aluminum oxides, which give them a distinct red color. They are typically found in equatorial rainforest regions and have low fertility due to the intense rainfall and high temperatures that lead to nutrients being quickly leached away. Conversely, Ultisols are also highly weathered but are slightly more fertile than Oxisols. They have a subsurface layer of clay accumulation and can be more productive when managed with the appropriate agricultural practices. Both soil types suffer from nutrient deficiencies and require proper management to be suitable for sustainable agriculture.