Do Anthropogenic Dark Earths Occur in the Interior of Borneo? Some Initial Observations from East Kalimantan

摘要: Anthropogenic soils of the Amazon Basin (Terra Preta, Terra Mulata) reveal that pre-Colombian peoples made lasting improvements in agricultural potential nutrient-poor soils. Some have argued applying similar techniques could improve agriculture over much humid tropics, enhancing local livelihoods and food security, while also sequestering large quantities carbon to mitigate climate change. Here, we present preliminary evidence for Dark Earths (ADEs) tropical Asia. Our surveys East Kalimantan (Indonesian Borneo) identified several sites where possess an anthropogenic development context respects Amazon’s ADEs. Similarities include riverside locations, presence useful fruit trees, spatial extent as well soil characteristics such dark color, high content (in some cases), phosphorus levels, improved apparent fertility comparison neighboring Local people value these cultivation but are unaware their origins. We discuss history land-use identify numerous unknowns. Incomplete biomass burning appears key modified More study is required clarify transformations Borneo determine under what circumstances might remain ongoing.