Journal of the Indian Society of Soil Science

Land and soils of ten inhabited islands of Lakshadweep were studied in detail to suggest sustainable land use options and conservation of the fragile island ecosystem. The nearly level islands have dominantly sandy soils derived by physical weathering of coral limestone. Ten soil series identified on the basis of soil morphological, physical and chemical properties were spatially delineated. The soils are generally deep, excessively drained, alkaline in reaction and poor in water holding capacity. Coarse fragments, shallow rooting depth and poor drainage conditions were observed in limited areas. The soils, in general, are deficient in plant nutrient elements viz., K, Fe, Mn, and Zn. In absence of viable sources of irrigation water, rainfed coconut plantation inter-cropped with vegetable and fruit crops seems to be the only land use option. Alternate use of problem areas was suggested.