Geological and Geomorphological Value of the Monogenetic Volcanoes in Wudalianchi National Park, NE China

Abstract

Cenozoic Wudalianchi volcanic field, which is located in northeast China, about 1,800 km away from the Pacific–Eurasia plate boundary, is characterized by 14 monogenetic basaltic volcanoes. These small-scale volcanoes are widely distributed in region and were formed by discrete, relatively short-lived volcanic eruptions. The activity of the basaltic volcanic field occurred during seven eruptive episodes spanning a period of 2.10 million years. Because the recent major eruptions—Laoheishan and Huoshaoshan volcanoes—took place in 1719–21 AD, the Wudalianchi volcanic field contains an exceptionally well-preserved range of volcanic landforms. It contains well-displayed examples of extensive lava flows, including a wide variety of lava flow surfaces, subsidiary pyroclastic cones, hornitos, and deposits of volcanic debris. As a member of the tentative list of World Natural Heritage in China, Wudalianchi National Park preserves and protects a high level of geological and geomorphological value with spectacular landforms and structures produced by geologically young volcanism.