Couraças e solos ferruginosos nas mesetas da formação Serra dos Martins da Paraíba

Abstract

This study analyzed the evolution of ferruginous duricrusts and soils in the mesas of the Serra dos Martins Formation, in the Agreste Paraibano region, aiming to understand their relationship with bio-pedo-geomorphological processes. It sought to characterize the morphological diversity of the duricrusts, understand their interaction with vegetation (δ¹³C), and propose an environmental evolution model. The results showed structural and compositional variations linked to different stages of formation and degradation. Isotopic analyses indicated paleovegetational and climatic changes, revealing alternation between humid and dry periods. Morphological characterization revealed patterns associated with geomorphological stability and instability. It is concluded that the genesis of duricrusts is influenced by geochemical, physical, and biological factors, with emphasis on the role of the biota in the Brejos de Altitude. The proposed model integrates geomorphological, pedological, and isotopic data, contributing to the understanding of the evolution of tropical landscapes.