clasificación y evaluación edafológica de tres sitios experimentales del altiplano central de méxico

The edaphological evaluation and soil classification of experimental areas sites are important instruments for the correct interpretation of agronomical results and decisionmaking about targeting and ex-ante evaluation of agricultural technology transfer. The objective of this article is to present the results of the edaphological evaluation soil, analysis and classification of three sites located in the altiplano central of Mexico. We wanted to determine the limiting factors for agricultural production before recommending conservation practices, as developed by INIFAP in collaboration with CIMMYT. The soils were classified both under the FAO classification system and USDA Soil Taxonomy in Santa Lucía as a cumulic Phaeozem, or a Cumulic Haplustoll, in El Horno as a mollic Fluvisol or Mollic Ustifluvents and a haplic Fluvisol or Typic Ustifluvents, and in Calpulapan, a petroduric Phaeozem, or Entic Duristoll. The limiting factors for crop production are mainly related to moisture availability, varying structure and texture along the profile, low organic matter content and risk of erosion. Taking into account these limiting factors further development, extension and implementation of conservation agriculture practices is highly recommended.