Evaluating soil fertility status in eastern algerian cereal farming systems

Soil, a precious natural resource, is under threat due to the rapid global population growth and the relentless pursuit of food and fuel production. These trends have led to significant environmental challenges, such as soil degradation, loss of biodiversity, water pollution, and increased CO2 emissions. The study collected soil samples from 150 sites, analyzing properties like particle size, exchangeable bases, organic carbon, nitrogen, available phosphorus, pH, and total limestone content. The analysis revealed that eight parameters, including Ca, Mg, K, CEC, and stability, had a significant impact on cereal yields. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used to create a Soil Quality Index (SQI), which differentiated high-yield areas from those with medium and low yields. High-yield lands were associated with better soil quality, particularly CEC, K, and Mg, while low-yield lands were linked to poor management practices and soil degradation. The findings provide valuable insights for improving agricultural soil management and enhancing crop productivity.