[Soil macropore and its studying methodology].

This paper discusses the definition, size, types, formation of soil macropores. Soil macropore (> 0.03 mm) is the pore space that provides preferential paths of flow. The shape of macropore varies from crack or fissure, through to cylindrical pipe. Macropore is formed in main ways: by plant roots and soil fauna; wet-dry and freeze-thaw cycles; chemical weathering. The studying method of macropore divided into direct measurement and indirect description, which suitability and limitation are also reviewed.