A pedogeomorphic comparison of two granitic areas in the Kruger National Park

Abstract

Two climatically different areas on granitic materials near Phalaborwa and Pretoriuskop in the Kruger National Park were pedogeomorphologically compared and the influence of climatic factors on soil and hillslope development in the two areas was assessed. The examination of 18 hillslopes and their soils showed that while the two areas have many broad similarities, there are specific soil and hillslope differences between them with the result that each area has its own distinctive pedogeomorphic character. While comparable parent material, situation and age appear to be responsible for similarities between the areas, the differences could in most cases be accounted for by the disparity in rainfall between the two areas. It was, however, also necessary to note the role of past (and possibly current) cycles of erosion and deposition in the creation of the two types of simple hillslopes occurring in the areas.