The ‘Terra Preta’ phenomenon: a model for sustainable agriculture in the humid tropics

This paper gives a short overview on the historical background and the formation of terra preta in the Amazon region. The composition of terra preta and the importance of charcoal and other ingredients for the formation and their carbon sequestration capacity are discussed. There is an outlook on how to recreate this very useful and nutrient rich type of earth in a synthetic way by mentioning current sources and studies.

GLASER, B. ; HAUMAIER, L. ; GUGGENBERGER, G. ; ZECH, W. (2001): The ‘Terra Preta’ phenomenon: a model for sustainable agriculture in the humid tropics. In: Naturwissenschaften: Volume 88 , 37-41. URL [Accessed: 11.05.2019]