Monogenetic cone morphometry in Isabela (Galapagos Islands): A tool for volcanic hazard

Isabela Island (Galápagos islands) exhibits complex volcanic structures related to diferent eruptive styles, which depend on the physical and chemical features of the magma and geological processes. These factors have played a significant role in shaping the current morphological configuration of volcanic cones, generating variations in dimensions, shapes, and flank slopes. Currently, there is limited information available on the morphometry of scoria cones on Isabela, which constrains the volcanological understanding of the area and the capacity for hazard and risk assessment. In this study, the principal morphometric parameters of scoria cones were determined using Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) and Geographic Information Systems (GISs). The proposed methodology is as follows: (i) a literature review for the selection of morphometric parameters; (ii) identification of the main monogenetic cones, DEM processing, and parameter estimation; (iii) correlation with volcanic hazard; and (iv) interpretation and comparison among volcanoes with different levels of activity.

As a result, a detailed analysis of the morphometry of scoria cones from different volcanoes and their evaluation in terms of volcanic hazard is obtained. The comparison of cone morphometry across volcanoes with different states of activity (recent and historical) highlights the usefulness of morphometric characterization as a tool for volcanic hazard assessment.