Which of the following diagnostic surface horizons is not common in India?

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (B) Anthropic

Explanation:
• In soil taxonomy, diagnostic surface horizons are called 'Epipedons'. They are defined by their thickness, color, organic matter content, and base saturation.
• Anthropic epipedon: A human-made surface horizon that has properties similar to a Mollic epipedon but has been modified by long-term human use, such as intense fertilization (high phosphorus content) or irrigation.
• While human-influenced soils exist in India, the specific 'Anthropic' diagnostic horizon (as defined by rigid USDA standards) is relatively uncommon compared to natural horizons.
• Ochric: The most common surface horizon in India; it is light-colored and low in organic matter (common in alluvial and red soils).
• Mollic and Umbric: Found in some Himalayan or high-altitude forest soils rich in organic matter.

Information Booster:
•
• An epipedon is not synonymous with the 'A-horizon'; it can include parts of the B-horizon if they meet the diagnostic criteria.
• Other epipedons include Histic (organic) and Melanic (volcanic).

Additional Knowledge:
• Mollic (Option A): Dark, thick, high base saturation (>50%); common in grasslands.
• Ochric (Option C): Fails to meet criteria for other epipedons; too light, too thin, or too low in OM.
• Umbric (Option D): Similar to Mollic but with low base saturation (<50%); common in high rainfall, acidic forest areas.