Abstract

MORENO-LOZADA, Daniel; GARCIA-DELGADO, Helbert  and  VELANDIA, Francisco. Recent tectonic activity on the western flank of the Santander massif (Colombia) from morphometric analysis. Bol. geol. [online]. 2024, vol.46, n.3, pp.69-103.  Epub Nov 28, 2024. ISSN 0120-0283.  https://doi.org/10.18273/revbol.v46n3-2024003.

Nowadays, because of the available spatial information and data processing capabilities, quantitative geomorphology has become a valuable tool for assessing recent tectonic activity in structurally complex areas such as the Santander Massif. This region is characterized by low seismological and GPS data density and scarcity or absence of paleoseismological studies. It is necessary to highlight the morphological features associated with the Bucaramanga Fault and transverse NE structures. This will help identify deformation patterns and understand their kinematics, and spatial and temporal interactions. The assessment of morphometric indices on the western margin of the massif allowed for the analysis of drainage basin asymmetry, mountain front characteristics, and variations in the drainage network. The results confirm a significant tectonic activity that generates active tilting in some sectors associated with NE transverse faults, with empirical uplift rates ranging from 0.03 to 0.08 m/ka. Additionally, a counterclockwise rotation of 16.5° is observed in the hydrographic basins, with pressure ridges indicating southeastward propagation along the Bucaramanga Fault.

Keywords : Bucaramanga Fault; Northern Andes; Basin asymmetry; Mountain front; Drainage network.

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