Map Manipulation for Rice Soil Fertility Classification of the Mekong Delta, Vietnam

Abstract

In Vietnam, the Mekong Delta is the most importance region for rice production. Nowadays, the crops intensification and
the exploitation of the soil for rice production, which led to soil degradation. Since, it is necessary to evaluate and
delineate rice soil fertility for proper use. In addition, the development of GIS technology, which makes mapping and
delineating easier. The delineation soil fertility classes were conducted together with the suggestion and recommendation
for proper uses depending on identified soil constraints. The collection of soil morphology, chemical and physical data
analysis within the Delta. Soil map of soil of the delated was also collected for converting soil map legend classified by
WRB (World Reference Based) system into soil fertility map classified by FCC system. Soil constraints for suitable uses
and managements were also recommended. The study results show that Mekong Delta has 35 FCC soil fertility types.
Eleven (11) soil constraints for cultivation were also identified, it is most from acid sulfate soils (ASS), and saline soils
(SS); including Slightly acid (a
-
), Strongly acid (a), High P fixation and high Fe toxicity potential (i), Low available P (p),
Strongly actual ASS (c), Slightly actual ASS (c
-
), Shallow potential ASS (f) Deep potential ASS (f
-
), Slight salinity (s
-
),
Strongly salinity (s), Ability low supply mineral (k), Ability low nutrient retention (e), Low organic carbon content (o).