Exploring the links between volcano flank collapse and the magmatic evolution of an ocean island volcano: Fogo, Cape Verde

Mass-wasting of ocean island volcanoes is a well-documented phenomenon. Massive flank collapses may imply tens to hundreds of km(3) and generate mega-tsunamis. However, the causal links between this large-scale, low-frequency instability, and the time-space evolution of magma storage, crystal fractionation/accumulation, lithospheric assimilation, and partial melting remains unclear. This paper aims at tracking time variations and links between lithospheric, crustal and surface processes before and after a major flank collapse (Monte Amarelo collapse ca. 70 ka) of Fogo volcano, Cape Verde Islands, by analysing the chemical composition (major, trace elements, and Sr-Nd-Pb isotopes) and age-controlled stratigraphy (K-Ar and Ar-Ar dating) of lavas along vertical sections (Bordeira caldera walls). The high-resolution sampling allows detecting original variations of composition at different time-scales: (1) a 60 kyrs-long period of increase of magma differentiation before the collapse; (2) a 10 kyrs-long episode of reorganization of magma storage and evacuation of residual magmas (enriched in incompatible elements) after the collapse; and (3) a delayed impact at the lithospheric scale similar to 50 kyrs after the collapse (increasing EM1-like materiel assimilation).

Automated summary

This study analyzes the chemical composition and age-controlled stratigraphy of lavas from Fogo volcano before and after a major flank collapse to track time variations and links between lithospheric, crustal, and surface processes. The findings reveal variations in magma differentiation, storage reorganization, and lithospheric assimilation following the collapse.