Key Laboratory of Cultivated Land Conservation in the Middle and Lower Reachesof the Yangtze River of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs,Soil and WaterConservation Research Center,Huazhong Agricultural University,Wuhan 430070,China
Objective This study aims to investigate the effects of crops during the entire growth season on runoff and sediment characteristics under natural rainfall conditions in black soil gentle slope cropland, providing a theoretical basis for soil erosion prevention and control in these areas. Methods From 2023 to 2024, natural rainfall observation experiments were conducted on in-situ runoff plots at different slope positions (upper, middle, and lower slopes) and with different crop types (soybean and maize). Soil and water loss characteristics in bare land and crop-covered plots were analyzed. Results (1) Rainfall patterns significantly affected soil erosion. In particular, high-intensity and long-duration rainfall (Rainfall Pattern Ⅲ) caused the greatest soil loss, while low-intensity and short-duration rainfall (Rainfall Pattern Ⅰ), though frequent, resulted in relatively low erosion intensity. (2) Significant differences in soil erosion were observed at different slope positions. The lower slope was more susceptible to erosion than the middle and upper slopes. (3) Among different crop types, maize exhibited a better inhibitory effect on soil erosion than soybean, indicating that crop type played a crucial role in soil and water conservation. (4) Path analysis results indicated that rainfall and runoff had a more significant impact on soil erosion than crop type. Conclusion Rainfall and runoff significantly affect soil erosion on crop-covered slopes. To effectively control soil erosion in black soil gentle slope cropland, the impact of high-intensity and long-duration rainfall should be given special consideration.
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