Soil enzyme activity of urban territories of Rostov agglomeration

Abstract. We carried out testing of the enzyme activity level (catalase, invertase, polyphenol oxidase) in natural and anthropogenically converted soils of Rostov-on-Don's (Russia) suburban, park, residential and industrial zones. The soil enzyme activity under conditions of urban pedogenesis is significantly lower (2 or 3 times) than in out-of-town analogs. Duration of soil sealing considerably influences biological activity, and, the longer this period the higher the negative impact on activity of researched enzyme is. Nevertheless, there is a close connection between soil humus condition and its enzyme activity: the activity of the above mentioned enzyme is highest in horizons containing the largest number of organic substance