Peat is an accumulation of partially decomposed and disintegrated plant remains, which have been fossilized under conditions of incomplete aeration and high water content. Development of peat is a progressive process with the continuous decomposition of plant matter. With time plant fiber may disappear leaving organic soils (organic clay/ organic slit), or organic matter may decompose in to an amorphous form. As the decomposition of plant fiber/vegetation is a time dependent process, different stages of decomposition could exist. Investigation done in low-laying areas of Colombo reveal the existence of 3 different types of peaty soils. 1. Fiber peats 2. Amorphous peat 3. Organic clays mixed with peat.
