Submitted by Anonymous on Thu, 02/16/2012 - 11:16
Forums
Seafloor Organisms and Changing Ocean Conditions in Antarctic

Hi, Did Dr. Bockheim tell you if the antarctic soils are red (contain iron)? Also, do permafrost soils undergo leaching, and distinct soil horizon development, since there is less precipitation there? The sky is so pretty in all of your pictures, the clouds are absolutely beautiful. Thanks, Laura

Fri, 02/17/2012 - 15:38

Nell Herrmann

Hi Laura,I got your question earlier today, but haven't seen Dr. Bockheim to ask him about it. Once we arrived at Palmer Station everyone sort of dispersed. I do know that he actually came up with a classification system for Antarctic soils (my understanding is that he's somewhat famous for that), so I will find out more and get back to you. I took a short hike this afternoon and took some photos-I'll show you when I get home. There was some reddish soil behind the station; I'm not sure if the red was due to iron or something else. I also took a photo of the xenoliths I mentioned in my 2-17 journal. They are really interesting!
I promise I'll have more on soils soon. I know that's your cup of tea! ;)
-Ms. Herrmann