Geochemistry of soils along a transect from Central Mexico to the Pacific Coast: A pilot study for continental-scale geochemical mapping

摘要: Abstract The Mexican Geological Survey (SGM), the National Institute of Statistics, Geography and Informatics (INEGI) Autonomous University San Luis Potosi (UASLP) have established a multidisciplinary team with objective creating national program geochemical mapping soils in Mexico. This is being done as part North American Soil Geochemical Landscapes Project partnership US Canada. As first step, pilot study was conducted over transect that extends from Mexico–US border near Ciudad Juarez north to Pacific Ocean south. two phases, this paper presents results phase, which sampled at about 40-km spacing along 730-km beginning Central Mexico ending Coast. Samples were collected A C horizons each site 60 elements analyzed. demonstrates based on adequate identify broad-scale patterns. Geologic influence (i.e., soil parent material) most important factor influencing distribution transect, followed by regional mineralization. also showed human activities minimal except possibly large mining districts. comparison element abundance horizon environmental guidelines natural concentrations studied lower than threshold for restoration exception V As. former had median value (75 mg/kg) approximately equal agricultural residential lands (78 mg/kg), latter three values higher 22 mg/kg lands. These cases demonstrate importance knowing national- regional-scale geochemistry support decision-making process, particularly proper formulation application designed protect ecosystem health.