INGEMMET identifies potential ancient oceanic crust in Piura

The Geological, Mining, and Metallurgical Institute (INGEMMET) has updated the geological information for the Huancabamba, Ayabaca, and Morropón areas, covering approximately 7,500 km² in the Piura region of northern Peru.

Key findings include the first identification of an amphibolite sequence in the Morropón area. These metamorphic rocks may originate from an ancient fragment of oceanic crust that was incorporated into the continent during the geological evolution of northwestern Peru. The rocks were identified in various sectors, including the vicinity of the Chorro Blanco waterfall near Canchaque.

The study also identified previously undescribed rock formations and established new ages for different rock bodies. In Ayabaca and Morropón, these dating results helped distinguish several episodes of magmatic activity. Researchers utilized a combination of existing geological data, aerial photography, satellite imagery, digital terrain models, field work, and laboratory analysis to complete the update.