DISTRIBUTION OF LIPID SULPHUR AND TOTAL LIPIDS IN SOILS OF BRITISH COLUMBIA

Abstract
The distribution of lipid S (sulpholipids) in 27 soils was examined in relation to factors which influence its abundance in different soil environments. Lipid S was found in all soils examined, but at levels varying from 1.6 to 291 ppm S. Lipid S content was higher in organic horizons than in mineral horizons, and poorly drained soils had higher lipid S than freely drained soils. Highest levels were observed in poorly drained organic soils. Lipid S accounted for a small proportion of total S (0.5–3.5%) and of total lipid (0.03–1.7%). Lipid S levels were on average three times higher than lipid P. Lipid S was significantly correlated with total S, HI-reducible S and organic C. In a regression analysis, 89% of the variation in soil content of lipid S was accounted for by total lipid and total S contents. The distribution of total lipids confirmed previous reports that higher levels were associated with soils having restricted biological activity.

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