Highmountain Soils of the Khevi Region

Abstract

Khevi is a region in Georgia that is situated at a high altitude. The mean elevation of relief is 2850 metres above sea level. The lowest elevation is found in Dariali Gorge at an altitude of 1210 metres above sea level, while the highest point is the peak Kazbek, towering at an elevation of 5033 metres above sea level. The orographic features in the Khevi region include the northern slope of the main ridge of the Caucasus, which is characterized by peaks such as Zilgakhokhi, Kadlasani, Lagatisari, Khorisari, and Kvenamta. Additionally, there are several passes in the area, namely, Uristi, Jvari, and Gudamakari. To the north, the Khokhi ridge rises, with notable peaks such as the Jimara (4770 m), Suatisi (4480 m), and Maili (4620 m) ridges, as well as the Shavana and Kuro ridges. Additional orographic features in the Khevi region include the R. Tergi gorge, the cavernous area of Kazbegi, and Sno. The Khevi territory covers an area of 1081.7 square kilometres, which represents 15.9% (6786.2 square kilometres) of the Mtskheta-Mtianeti region. Mount Kazbek is renowned for its exquisite beauty and majestic presence among the European mountain range. The elevation of the object is 5033 metres above sea level. Kazbek is situated in a nival-glacial region and is consistently enveloped by snow and ice. The Kuro, Kidegani, and Shavana ridges are located on the left side of the Tergi River in the meridian direction. The research area is situated in the subalpine and alpine regions. The alpine zone is located at an elevation range of 2100-2300 metres. The alpine natural zone is found at the highest elevations of the Caucasus Ridge. Mountain meadow soils are found in the subalpine and alpine zones. Mountain meadow soils exhibit undifferentiated profiles. The primary diagnostic indicators are a distinct humus layer overlaying a minor weathering layer. The entire area of mountain meadow soils is 1,758,200 hectares, accounting for 25.1% of the country. Mountain meadow soils are found extensively in the subalpine and alpine regions of the Caucasus and the southern mountains of Transcaucasia, ranging in elevation from 1800 (2000) m to 3200 (3500) m above sea level.