Submerged Soils: (The Professional's Notes Series (PNS))

Volume 04 uncovers the significance of soils subjected to waterlogging and submersion, particularly in the context of India. Submerged soils, also known as waterlogged soils or hydric soils, are those that experience prolonged periods of saturation or inundation with water. Found in wetlands, floodplains, rice paddies, and coastal areas, these soils play a critical role in regulating water flow, nutrient cycling, and biodiversity. Despite their importance, submerged soils are often understudied and underappreciated in soil science literature. In the Indian context, submerged soils hold particular significance due to the countrys diverse landscape and agricultural practices. Wetlands and floodplains are integral components of Indias ecosystem, providing essential services such as water purification, flood control, and habitat for wildlife. Moreover, rice paddies are a staple feature of Indian agriculture, supporting millions of livelihoods and contributing significantly to the countrys food security. The nutrient dynamics of submerged soils differ from those of well-drained soils, presenting unique challenges and opportunities for agricultural productivity. Waterlogged conditions can lead to anaerobic environments, affecting the availability and mobility of nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and iron. As a result, nutrient management strategies must be tailored to the specific needs and constraints of submerged soils, balancing the requirements of crop growth with environmental sustainability. Furthermore, submerged soils can be significant sources of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, particularly methane (CH4), due to anaerobic microbial processes such as methanogenesis. Methane emissions from submerged soils contribute to climate change and global warming, highlighting the importance of studying and mitigating GHG emissions from these ecosystems. In light of these considerations, studying submerged soils is essential for understanding their ecological functions, agricultural potential, and environmental impacts. By understanding the complexities of submerged soil ecosystems, we can develop sustainable land management practices that promote soil health, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience.

About the Author :
Dr. Anandkumar Naorem is currently employed as a scientist at ICAR-Central Arid Zone Research Institute in Jodhpur, India, and previously held the position of Head-in-charge at ICAR- CAZRI, RRS-Bhuj, India. He completed his bachelors degree at Assam Agricultural University, Assam, India, and pursued his masters degree in soil microbiology and bioformulation at the College of Post-Graduate Studies, Central Agricultural University, Meghalaya, India. His doctoral research, conducted at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya in West Bengal, India, focused on the remediation of soil heavy metals for safer crop cultivation. Dr. Naorem, who has authored several national and international publications, has received national recognition, including the 2015 Best Zonal Master's Thesis award from the Indian Society of Soil Science and the UGC-Maulana Azad National Fellowship for Minority Students (India). He is acknowledged for his contributions as a young scientist by numerous societies and organizations, having led various research projects on soil quality in arid regions, studies on elevated carbon dioxide levels, and investigations into halophytes. Notably, he has played a key role in international initiatives promoting spineless cactus as a dryland feed option in Gujarat.