Which term is used to describe soils that are influenced by wetness features?

The term used to describe soils that are influenced by wetness features is gleyed soils. Gleying is a process that occurs in waterlogged conditions where the soil receives limited oxygen, leading to specific chemical changes. This often results in distinct color patterns, particularly shades of gray or blue-gray, due to the reduction of iron compounds in anaerobic environments. The organic matter and microbial activity in these settings contribute to developing specific wetland characteristics and can affect soil morphology, structure, and fertility.

In contrast, saline soils are characterized by a high concentration of soluble salts, which can affect plant growth but are not primarily defined by their wetness. Peaty soils contain a significant amount of organic matter and are associated with wetlands but do not specifically describe the influence of wetness in the same way gleyed soils do. Clayey soils refer to soil texture, specifically a high proportion of fine particles, and while they can hold water, the term does not indicate the wetness features that lead to gleying. Thus, the term gleyed adequately describes the specific influence of wetness on soil formation and characteristics.