Are Soil Physical-Hydraulic Attributes Influenced By Profile Position On The Slope?

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the influence of soil physical-hydraulic attributes in a toposequence at the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro campus, identifying their relationship with erosion susceptibility. Theoretical framework: The research is based on studies on erosive dynamics and soil conservation, considering the influence of relief and physical-hydraulic characteristics on soil formation and degradation. Method: Three soil profiles were analyzed at different slope positions (upper, middle, and lower thirds). Undisturbed and disturbed samples were collected for chemical and physical analyses, including bulk density, gravimetric moisture, penetration resistance, and porosity. Descriptive statistics, correlation coefficients, and principal component analysis (PCA) were applied. Results and Discussion: Soil physical-hydraulic attributes varied even over short distances in the toposequence, influencing erosion susceptibility. The middle-third profile showed the highest erosion risk due to its slope position and physical-hydraulic characteristics. Research implications: The findings contribute to soil management and conservation practices, supporting erosion mitigation and the adoption of sustainable agricultural strategies in vulnerable areas. Originality/value: This study provides a detailed analysis of physical-hydraulic attribute variation in a specific toposequence, expanding knowledge on erosion processes and sustainable soil management in tropical soils.