Modeling Humus Stocks and Introducing a Saturation Coefficient to Assess Soil Organic Carbon Capacity in Forest Soils of the Sheki-Zagatala Region, Azerbaijan

A novel saturation coefficient, representing the ratio of actual to maximum theoretically attainable humus content based on cation exchange capacity (CEC) or clay content, was introduced to assess soil organic carbon capacity. This coefficient revealed significant variability linked to soil type, forest composition, and land-use history, averaging 0.33-0.34 across all soils studied in the Sheki-Zagatala region of Azerbaijan. The study also demonstrated that humus content decreases exponentially with depth, accurately described by a specific mathematical model (Y = α × e-ß×10⁻²×(X -3)). Humus reserves in the 0-20cm layer averaged 95.1±2.7t/ha, with notable differences among soil types such as leached kastanozems and sodpodzolic soils. The integration of empirical models, the saturation coefficient, and GIS mapping provides a robust toolset for evaluating humus dynamics, guiding reforestation efforts, and improving regional carbon inventories.

Zahid, R. (Ed.). (2026). Modeling Humus Stocks and Introducing a Saturation Coefficient to Assess Soil Organic Carbon Capacity in Forest Soils of the Sheki-Zagatala Region, Azerbaijan. International Journal of Agriculture and Biosciences. https://doi.org/10.47278/journal.ijab/2026.116