Question

What characteristic fits hydric soil?

1) High organic matter content
2) Poor drainage
3) Low oxygen levels
4) All of the above

Answer 1

Hydric soil is characterized by all of the above: high organic matter content, poor drainage, and low oxygen levels, which are conditions resulting from waterlogged soils.

Step-by-step explanation:

The characteristic that fits hydric soil is all of the above: high organic matter content, poor drainage, and low oxygen levels. Poor drainage leads to conditions that conserve soil organic matter and prevent the oxidation of materials, such as iron, which may appear greyish or greenish when in reduced states (Fe²+). Low oxygen, or anoxic conditions, often result from waterlogged soils that prevent efficient oxygen penetration, affecting plant and microbial life. These characteristics can lead to a build-up of organic acids and a high retention of moisture, which makes it challenging for many plants to access the oxygen and nutrients needed for growth, although some specially adapted plants can thrive in these conditions.