Physical characteristics of a clayey Yellow Latosol (typic acrorthox) in the state of Amazonas, under different tillage system

Abstract

The effects of three tillage methods (conventional, notill and rototill) on soil permeability and porosity were evaluated on a clayey Yellow Latosol (Typic Acrorthox) located at EMBRAPA/ UEPAE of Manaus. Tillage treatments caused a significant reduction in topsoil (0 cm - 20 cm) macro porosity when compared to a virgin primary forest site. Consequently values for hydraulic conductivity and basic infiltration on these treatments also changed. The notill treatment presented the largest reductions in permeability suggesting a possible compaction of the topsoil.