AGROCHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF SOILS UNDER DIFFERENT FOREST VEGETATION TYPES IN CENTRAL YAKUTIA

The paper presents the results of a comparative analysis of agrochemical properties of soils under different types of forest stands (birch, larch, pine, and spruce) in Central Yakutia, formed under permafrost conditions. The study assesses soil reaction, organic matter content, total and nitrate nitrogen, available forms of phosphorus and potassium, and soluble salts. The results show that the type of forest vegetation has a significant effect on soil agrochemical characteristics. Soils under birch and larch forests are characterized by higher natural fertility due to increased humus content and higher availability of phosphorus and potassium. Pine forest soils exhibit the lowest levels of organic matter and available nutrients and a more acidic soil reaction. Spruce forest soils occupy an intermediate position in terms of agrochemical indicators. The revealed patterns reflect the specific features of biogeochemical cycling in forest ecosystems of Central Yakutia and can be used for forest restoration planning, selection of tree species for afforestation, and assessment of soil ecological conditions in permafrost regions.