The role of frost boils in the development of cryozems on coastal lowlands of northern Yakutia

Abstract

The influence of frost boils on the development of cryozems (Turbic Cryosols) in the tundra zone of northern Yakutia is discussed. Mechanisms of the input, redistribution, and transformation of raw organic matter with its accumulation in the deep part of the profile of cryozems are elucidated. As a result, specific organomineral or organic horizons are formed above the permafrost table. The development of cryozems has a cyclic pattern: from the stage of barren frost boil to the stage of mature soil profile. However, this cycle can be interrupted at any stage of overgrowing of the barren surface of frost boil. The rates of overgrowing and the formation of the profile of cryozem, and the ¹⁴C age of organic matter accumulated in the organomineral suprapermafrost horizons are estimated.