Hydrogen potential and electrical conductivity: two essential parameters in the growth of Alnus acuminata

Kevin Abner Ortega-Quispe; María Del Carme Arana-Rodríguez; Hans Diego  Camayo-Basurto; Meliza Angely Molina-Damas

doi:10.51431/par.v6i2.968

Autores/as

Kevin Abner Ortega-Quispe Facultad de Ingeniería Ambiental, Universidad Continental, Huancayo – Perú https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7436-2894
María Del Carme Arana-Rodríguez Facultad de Ingeniería Ambiental, Universidad Continental, Huancayo – Perú https://orcid.org/0009-0002-7888-9076
Hans Diego Camayo-Basurto Facultad de Ingeniería Eléctrica, Universidad Nacional del Centro del Perú, Huancayo – Perú https://orcid.org/0009-0004-7650-4237
Meliza Angely Molina-Damas Facultad de Ciencias Forestales y del Ambiente, Universidad Nacional del Centro del Perú, Huancayo – Perú https://orcid.org/0009-0005-1425-1403

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51431/par.v6i2.968

Palabras clave:

pH, Alnus acuminata, rocky soils, electrical conductivity, Ilish Pichacoto

Resumen

Objective: The study aims to determine whether there are significant differences in pH (hydrogen potential) and electrical conductivity (EC) between rocky and deep soils where Alnus acuminata is distributed in the Ilish Pichacoto Private Conservation Area (ACP).Methodology: Soil samples were taken near 38 trees using a random linear transect within a 1-meter radius around each tree. Each soil sample was extracted against the slope at a depth of 20 cm using manual probes. The pH was measured with a precision potentiometer, while the EC was recorded with an electrical conductivity meter. For statistical analysis, a Student's t-test for independent samples was used. Additionally, regression equations and coefficients of determination (R²) were generated. Results: The results showed that the average pH of rocky soils was 5.77, significantly higher than the average pH of 4.78 in deep soils. Regarding EC, the mean was 0.15 dS/m in rocky soils and 0.5 dS/m in deep soils, indicating a significant difference between the two soil types. Conclusion: There are substantial differences in pH and EC between rocky and deep soils where Alnus acuminata grows. This tree species shows better growth in rocky soils than in deep soils within the study area.