Geodynamic constraints of Canarian volcanism
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Abstract
The intimate relationship between tectonism and magmatism is evident in all volcanic
environments, where magma production, magma ascent rate, loci of volcanic activity, and
the style of volcanic activity, are directly dependent on the regional/local tectonic
characteristics of the area. A good understanding of the geodynamic controls of volcanism
is crucial to characterise its associated hazards and to forecast future volcanic eruptions.
Unfortunately, very few active volcanic areas are well constrained in terms of their
geodynamics, which are basically investigated at a regional scale in order to understand
the origin of the related magmatism, but not at a more local scale trying to characterise the
structural controls on magma evolution and eruption. In this contribution we investigate the
geodynamic framework of Canarian volcanism, applying numerical modelling to determine
the current distribution of regional and local stresses. On the light of the results obtained
we discuss the structural controls of the Canarian volcanism, and propose a conceptual
model that explains the interplay between volcanism and geodynamics as an effective way
to forecast future volcanic activity in this area.