These have a low bulk density, a high P fixation potential and pH dependent anion exchange capacity. Some may upon drying become irreversably hardened into aggregates. They are acid with high organic matter. They are often used to support coffee and potatoes. Lithic dystrapepts are shallower soils of recent erosion surfaces having bedrock at 50 cm depth or less.
Weatherable minerals release nutrients and exchangeable aluminum.
All of these soils have a low base saturation. The climate of the Cotobrus area is mild and fairly constant. Precipitation varies somewhat, being low during January through March, and higher the rest of the year. Temperature is relatively constant year-round. This figure shows the 30- year averages for the Las Cruces biological station, on a monthly basis.