A global database of volcano edifice morphometry using SRTM DEMs

The morphometry of volcanic edifices reflects the aggradational and degradational processes that interact during their evolution. In association with VOGRIPA, a global risk identification project, we are currently constructing a database on the morphometry of volcanic edifices using digital elevation models (DEMs) from the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM). Our aim is to compile and make available a global database of morphometric parameters that characterize the shape and size of volcanic edifices. The 90-meter SRTM DEM is presently the best public-access DEM dataset for this task because of its near-global coverage and spatial resolution that is high enough for the analysis of composite volcanic edifices. The Smithsonian Institution database lists 1536 active/potentially active volcanoes worldwide. Of these, ~900 volcano edifices can be analyzed with the SRTM DEMs, discarding volcanoes not covered by the dataset above latitudes 60°N and 56°S, submarine volcanoes, volcanoes with mostly negative topographies (i.e. calderas, maars) and monogenetic cones and domes, which are too small to accurately study with the 90-meter resolution. Morphometric parameters are acquired using an expressly written IDL-language code named MORVOLC. Edifice outline is determined via a semi-automated algorithm that identifies slope-breaks between user-estimated maximum and minimum outlines. Thus, volcanic edifices as topographic entities are considered, excluding aprons or ring plains and other far-reaching volcanic products. Several morphometric parameters are computed which characterize edifice size and shape. Size parameters are height (from base to summit), volume, base and summit areas and widths (average, minimum, maximum). Plan shape is summarized using two independent dimensionless indexes that describe the shape of the elevation contours, ellipticity (quantifies the elongation of each contour) and irregularity (quantifies the irregularity or complexity of each contour). Profile shape is summarized using dimensionless ratios (height/basal width, summit width/basal width) and slope statistics (mean, maximum interval, slope variation vs. height). A degree of radial symmetry is also calculated, as well as the azimuth of edifice elongation, the strike and dip of the basal surface and the number of summit and flank peaks. In addition to the morphometric parameters, graphs, profiles and maps are also generated. We anticipate that the database will be useful for regional comparisons, for quantitative and systematic classifications, and as a tool for studies of associated volcanological processes (e.g. Grosse et al., 2009, Geology).