Structural control on badland slope evolution: A case study from the southern Apennines (Italy)

Abstract

This work focuses on a multi-method study of badlands exposed in two different areas of southern Italy. Results of both geomorphological and structural geological studies are obtained by combining field and laboratory analyses of the badlands affecting Plio-Quaternary silty-clays of southern Italy. Results are discussed in terms of deformation mechanisms and badland formation and evolution. Results highlight the role played by pre-existing structural heterogeneities, such as high-angle faults and joints, on both gravitational processes and water circulation. The aforementioned heterogeneities are due to specific tectonic stress regimes, and are interpreted in light of their genetic nature, kinematics, attitude, geometry, relative timing of formation, and aerial distribution. Results of this work are summarized in a four-stage conceptual model characterized by specific genetic mechanisms. The conceptual model includes representative sketches aimed at assessing the time-dependant evolution of the badlands. A profound link between structural geology and geormophological processes is therefore envisioned for the badlands of southern Italy.