Geomorphological characterization of high cryogenic basins in the Sierra de Santa Victoria, Salta province

Abstract

The objective of this research is the survey, inventory, and description of landforms and periglacial and glacial processes in high cryogenic basins in the mountain of Santa Victoria, Salta province. An important association of micro and macroforms were identified, in which the rock glaciers stood out, by their extension as by defining high water resources. The presence of these landforms represent the maximum expressions of periglacial environments, and are directly related to the presence of mountain permafrost. Thematic maps of terrain variables that are directly related to the development of periglacial processes and landforms were made. In addition, phenomena of permafrost degradation were recognized that show the need of organized management of the resources facing the possible risks of global warming effects.