Using digital elevation models for morphological analysis of La Hoyada volcanic complex|Análisis morfológico del complejo volcánico la hoyada puna austral mediante la aplicación de modelos de elevación digital

Volcanoes´ shapes result from constructional and destructional events; consequently, the study of volcanic features gives insight into the volcanic evolution. La Hoyada Volcanic Complex (Upper Miocene- Pliocene) is located in the eastern flank of San Buenaventura ridge, in Catamarca, Argentina. This study shows an application of digital elevation models for the volcanic area La Hoyada. The aim of this study is to examine the volcanic landforms because volcanic feature understanding of La Hoyada Volcanic Complex is an important tool for unravelling the evolution of this ancient and eroded volcanic complex.Morphological analysis of La Hoyada was performed using ASTER (Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer) and SRTM (Shuttle Radar Topographic Mission) Digital Elevation Models. The morphological evaluation was complemented by using high resolution images SPOT. Several products were derived from both Digital Elevation Models to identify areal morphologies. Through the evaluation of Digital Elevation Models derived data, as much as 6 morphological domains can be recognized each one representing a single volcano.Tectonic activity and modern volcanism in this area are responsible for the destruction of the volcanic edifices of La Hoyada. The partially conserved volcanic features are more distinguishable towards the north; hence, the grade of preservation could indicate that the evolution of this volcanic center was from south to north. This methodology provides a powerful tool for understanding the volcanic evolution of eroded long-lived volcanic complexes.