DISTRIBUTION OF MICROELEMENTS AND THEIR ECOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCEIN MOUNTAIN-FOREST SOILS OF THE LANKARAN ECONOMIC REGION

Abstract

This study examines how microelements-iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) are distributed within the mountain-forest soils of the Lankaran–Astara region and their ecological significance. The research covered a range of altitudes, slope orientations, and geomorphological conditions. Soil profiles were analyzed in the field according to genetic horizons, while laboratory tests assessed morphological structure, humus layer depth, pH, texture, and microelement concentrations. Results indicate that microelement distribution is strongly influenced by topography and climatic factors. Altitudinal variation, moisture availability, and slope aspect were found to directly impact microelement bioavailability and soil fertility. These findings offer important insights for ecological evaluation, soil monitoring, and the sustainable management of soil resources.