Late Palaeozoic calc-alkaline volcanism in the Precordillera of La Rioja: petrology and lithostratigraphical characterization of the Punta del Agua Formation (Late Carboniferous - Early Permian)

Abstract

The Punta del Agua Formation (north-west Paganzo Basin) represents the earliest manifestation of Neopalaeozoic volcanism in the Precordillera and Sierras Pampeanas. The unit consists of interbedded lava flows, pyroclastic flows and clastic sedimentary deposits. The lava flows have been divided according to their composition and textural characteristics; a dacitic sill is also included. Pyroclastic flows consist of block- and ash-flow deposits and reoignimbrites. Between periods of volcanicity, conglomerates, lithic sandstones and scarce mudstones were deposited in lenticular bodies that reflect the irregular morphology of the volcanic area. Twelve samples of the volcanic rocks, obtained from both flanks of the Punta del Agua syncline were geochemically analysed. The variation in chemical composition ranges from basaltic andesites to rhyolites, but andesitic compositions dominate. The calc-alkaline character of these rocks and the abundance of K in the andesites, suggest that these magmas originated by subduction with crystal fractionation and contamination processes. The age of the Punta del Agua Formation was established on the basis of its stratigraphical relations and radiometric dating. Both suggest a Late Carboniferous age, although an Early Permian age for the uppermost part of the sequence cannot be disregarded.