Why can peat create deep acidic soils in mountain regions?

Peat creates deep, acidic soils in mountain regions and other environments primarily through the biological activity of peat moss (Sphagnum).21

These mosses possess specialized cells that actively absorb minerals (cations) from the surrounding water and replace them with hydrogen ions. This ion-exchange process significantly increases the acidity of the water and the underlying soil. This high acidity, combined with waterlogged, oxygen-poor (anaerobic) conditions, inhibits the bacterial and fungal activity that would otherwise decompose organic matter.231

Because decomposition is slowed or prevented, dead plant material accumulates over time, leading to the formation of deep layers of peat. This process is particularly effective in cool, moist regions where moisture accumulates from high precipitation or humidity, allowing these unique, acidic ecosystems to persist and grow.34