What happens to colluvium over time?

Over time, colluvium, which is material that has been weathered and moved downslope by gravity, can accumulate and contribute to the formation of soil layers. As colluvium builds up, it undergoes processes such as weathering, which breaks down rock and mineral fragments, and biological activity, where organic matter from plants and animals gets incorporated. This combination of physical and biological processes enriches the colluvial material, allowing it to develop into a more homogenous layer that contains nutrients necessary for plant growth. Eventually, these changes lead to the establishment of a distinct soil horizon that can support vegetation, characterizing the transition from loose sediment to a more stable soil layer. This transformation highlights the importance of colluvium in landscape evolution and soil development.