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Concepts and rationale of the Australian Soil Classification (Book)

This CSIRO book, also know as the ‘Black Book’, explains the scientific principles, terminology and decision-making framework behind the Australian Soil Classification (ASC) system. It describes why the classification was developed, how Australian soils differ from those in other parts of the world, and the diagnostic features used to identify soil Orders, Suborders and lower classification levels. The book outlines the concepts used to classify soils based on observable soil properties such as texture, structure, colour, chemistry and drainage characteristics. It is primarily written for soil scientists, land resource officers, researchers and tertiary students, but it is also useful for advisers and land managers seeking a deeper understanding of how Australian soils are grouped and interpreted. The paperback version of this book may still be available from online booksellers such as Amazon or from university libraries [152 pages]. #

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  • Author/Editor: R Isbell, W McDonald and L Ashton
  • Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
  • Resource Type: Book
  • Copyright Year: 1997
  • ISBN/ISDN: 9780643060104
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Resource Last Updated: May 29, 2026

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