Asian Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition

This study investigates the distribution and interrelationship of iron (Fe) fractions in salt affected soils of Navsari District, Gujarat, during the summer 2023-24. A total of 60 soil samples were collected from two depths (0-20 cm and 20-40 cm) across saline prone villages, including coastal high salinity zones. Samples were analysed for pH, Electrical Conductivity of saturation extract (ECe), calcium carbonate (CaCO₃), Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC), Exchangeable Sodium Percentage (ESP) and various Fe fractions viz., Fe- Mn-O-Fe, Org-Fe, CO₃- Fe, Exch-Fe and WS-Fe. Soil pH ranged from neutral to strongly alkaline, with higher ECe observed in coastal region areas. The dominant Fe fractions followed the order under coastal region areas were: Fe- Mn-O-Fe > Org-Fe > CO₃- Fe > Exch-Fe > WS-Fe. All the Fe fractions were lower in saline areas as compared to non-saline areas except CO₃-Fe, which was higher under salinity. Correlation analysis revealed significant and depth-dependent relationship among soil properties and Fe fractions. Notably, pH was negatively correlated with ECe and Exch-Fe at the surface, while WS-Fe showed contrasting relationship with other Fe forms. These results highlight complex interactions influencing Fe availability in saline soils.