Morphological and morphometric characterization of the Tul Tul, Pocitos, and Del Medio Volcanoes. Puna, Central Andes
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Abstract
The morphology of volcanoes reflects the interplay of constructive and destructive processes acting over time. The morphometric characterization of the Tul Tul, Del Medio, and Pocitos (TUMEPO) volcanoes, located in the Puna region near the Calama–Olacapato–El Toro lineament, reveals a complex volcanic evolution. Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) derived from ALOS PALSAR data (12.5 m resolution) enabled identification of key features such as craters, lava flows, and domes, supporting a detailed morphological analysis. The current form of these volcanoes results from the combined influence of eruptive behavior, structural controls, and post-eruptive processes, including erosion and gravitational collapse. All three centers classify as sub-cones, though with distinct morphologies: Tul Tul retains a regular conical shape with radial drainage; Del Medio shows a more complex structure shaped by a large summit crater and nearby volcanic centers; and Pocitos presents a more degraded morphology linked to intense erosion. These variations reflect both the eruptive histories of each volcano and their spatial and temporal interactions. Evidence within the TUMEPO chain suggests that partially synchronous activity among adjacent centers contributed to their present morphologies. Post-eruptive domes at Del Medio and the preservation of youthful forms at Tul Tul support this interpretation. This study underscores the usefulness of DEMs for geomorphological and geodynamic analysis of volcanic systems, while highlighting the need for higher-resolution datasets, field-based validation, and improved geochronological constraints. Overall, the results provide a robust framework for understanding the evolution of the TUMEPO volcanic chain and contribute to broader volcanic research in the region.
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