The new format of the Spanish Journal of Quaternary and Geomorphology

Abstract

The morphometrical analysis of 155 landslides in the Nalón river Basin headwater shows wide ranging values of the analysed parameters. These include measurements of landslide altitude, size, morphology and gradient. This variation can be explained according to the studied landslides typology, in relation to the lithology from which they are developed. Large escarpments in the Escalada Fm. Limestones are controlled by rock avalanches, while complex and flow movements are mainly developed from the detritical bedrock of the Fito and Beleño Fms. The origin of landslides is conditioned by the differential behaviour of the underlying bedrock, as well as by slopes changes induced by the Quaternary fluvial donwcutting. However, the larger landslides in the glaciated area of this basin (up 950 m. high) seem to be related to lateral expansion mechanism in the valley sides.