Evidence from plutonic xenoliths for magma differentiation, mixing and storage in a volatile-rich crystal mush beneath St. Eustatius, Lesser Antilles.

ABSTRACT: Quantifying the storage conditions and evolution of different magmatic components within sub-volcanic plumbing systems is key to our understanding of igneous processes and products. Whereas erupted magmas represent a portion of the eruptible volcanic system, plutonic xenoliths provide a complementary record of the mushy roots of the plumbing system that cannot be mobilised easily to form lavas and consequently offer a unique record of magma diversity within the sub-volcanic plumbing system. Here, we present a detailed petrological and geochemical study of erupted plutonic xenoliths from the island of Sint Eustatius (Statia), in the northern Lesser Antilles volcanic arc. The plutonic xenoliths are predominantly gabbroic, but vary in texture, mineral assemblage and crystallisation sequence.

SUBMITTER: Cooper GF 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6530818 | biostudies-literature | 2019

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature