The influence of aeolian dust in non-allophanic Andosols on Yakushima Island

Non-allophanic Andosols on Yakushima Island, primarily derived from Holocene volcanic ash, show significant influence from aeolian dust, as indicated by the δ18O composition of quartz and clay mineral d(060) values. The study found that aerosol-sized quartz in these soils, with δ18O values ranging from 14.7‰ to 17.4‰, matched or slightly exceeded those in loess-derived soils on nearby Tanegashima Island, suggesting strong aeolian dust input. However, the presence of coarse quartz and trioctahedral clay minerals confirmed additional contributions from biotite-granite materials. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed mixed dioctahedral and trioctahedral clay minerals, further supporting dual influences on soil formation. This research highlights the complex interplay between aeolian dust and local geology in shaping Yakushima's unique non-allophanic Andosols.

Eguchi, T., Tanaka, R., Maejima, Y., & Tamura, K. (2012). The influence of aeolian dust in non-allophanic Andosols on Yakushima Island. Soil Science and Plant Nutrition, 58(2), 191–199. https://doi.org/10.1080/00380768.2012.672926