Infrared spectroscopy as a useful tool to predict land use depending on Mediterranean contrasted climate conditions: A case study on soils from olive-orchards and forests.

Soil chemical properties depend on various environmental factors such as above ground vegetation, climate and the parent rock substratum. Land use, and the associated management practices, is one of the major drivers which can deeply impact soil properties. To better understand the dynamics of soil chemical properties and to assess potential impact of land use, an improved monitoring of chemical signature in organo-mineral topsoils is necessary.