Working group

The aim of the working group Humusformen is to refine the German systematic classification of humus forms. The basis of the humus form classification is pedogenesis. 

Therefore, the basis of the classification is the description of diagnostic soil horizons and the sequence of soil horizons of the organic layer and the mineral topsoil. Another task is the organization of workshops in which the morphological, chemical and biological properties of humus forms are discussed and demonstrated with students and soil scientists.

The working group is part of the Commission III – Soil Biology of the German Soil Science Society.The working group is open for interested soil scientists.

The working group cooperates with the working group of soil systematics (DBG) and the working group Guidelines for Soil Mapping (Bodenkundliche Kartieranleitung) and Arbeitsgemeinschaft Forstliche Standorts- und Vegetationskunde (AFSV). Every member of the German Soil Science Society interested in humus forms is welcome to attend our working group.

If you have any questions or suggestions, please contact our chairperson Christine Wachendorf Contact

In 1976 the working group was founded by the German Soil Science Society at the request of Prof. Dr. Mückenhausen. The working group was authorized to stratify the humus forms systematically and to train students and soil surveyors. The first chairman was Ecke von Zezschwitz, leading the working group from 1976-1994. From 1994-2007 head of the working group was Gerhard Milbert and Claudia Erber (2003-2007). At present the group is led by Christine Wachendorf (University of Kassel).