What is a crucial characteristic of hydric soils?

Hydric soils are characterized by their saturation with water, leading to anaerobic conditions, which means they lack sufficient oxygen. This specific characteristic arises because hydric soils are typically found in wetlands or areas that are frequently inundated with water. The prolonged saturation affects the physical and chemical properties of the soil, making it unable to support most aerobic microorganisms, thus creating an environment conducive to certain wetland plant species adapted to these low-oxygen conditions.

In contrast, well-drained soils do not maintain the saturation necessary to be classified as hydric. While hydric soils can promote certain types of plant growth, especially wetland flora, they are distinct from typical nutrient-rich soils found in other environments. Additionally, although hydric soils may hold organic matter and nutrients due to their unique conditions, the defining characteristic is their anaerobic nature resulting from soil saturation.