Multi-scale resistivity imaging for soil moisture and structure characterization in precision agriculture

Abstract

Sustainable agriculture in tropical regions relies on precise understanding of soil water dynamics under varying topographic, textural, and climatic conditions. This study integrates Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) and Electromagnetic Induction (EMI) to characterize soil moisture distribution and subsurface textural heterogeneity across three contrasting agricultural landscapes in West Java, Indonesia—Subang (coastal lowlands), Bandung (uplands), and Sumedang (terraced highlands). ERT provided high-resolution vertical profiles to 5 m depth, revealing resistivity ranges that correspond to lithological and hydrological properties. In Subang, low resistivity (1.7–30 Ω·m) showed high-salinity clay loam with a shallow water table. Conversely, high resistivity in Bandung (70–300 Ω·m) reflected well-drained sandy layers with limited retention. Intermediate values in Sumedang suggested deep moisture storage within clay-rich layers beneath drier topsoil, influenced by terrace morphology. EMI mapping complemented ERT by capturing lateral resistivity variations at fixed depths, offering spatial continuity across the surveyed areas. The combined approach revealed that slope gradient, soil texture, and drainage conditions jointly govern water retention and availability. The integration of ERT and EMI provides complementary information on vertical and lateral variability of soil moisture distribution. Field observations and soil profile analysis confirm the reliability of the geophysical interpretation. These findings demonstrate that integrated geophysical imaging provides an effective non-invasive tool for mapping soil moisture variability and supporting precision agriculture strategies in tropical agricultural environments.