Geology of Dominica
Open-knowledge reference entry
The geology of Dominica is part of the broader Lesser Antilles Volcanic Arc, considered a modern example of island arcs that often accreted to continents as exotic terranes. Dominica is located in the center of the chain, with Guadeloupe to the north and Martinique to the south. Pleistocene sediments overlie almost the entire island except for an area of Pliocene exposures in the east. The oldest basement rocks are volcanic basalt deposits from the Eocene.
The country's central spine, a northwest–southeast axis of steep volcanic slopes and deep gorges, generally varies in elevation from 300 to 1,400 metres (984 to 4,593 ft) above sea level. Several east-west trending mountain spurs extend to the narrow coastal plain, which is studded with sea cliffs and has level stretches no wider than 2,000 metres (6,562 ft). The highest peak is Morne Diablotins, at 1,447 metres (4,747 ft); Morne Trois Pitons, with an elevation of 1,423 metres (4,669 ft), lies farther south and is the site of Morne Trois Pitons National Park.
The interior features rugged mountains of volcanic origin. Although scores of mostly mild seismic shocks were recorded in 1986, volcanic eruptions ceased thousands of years ago. Sulfuric springs and steam vents, largely concentrated in the central and southern parts of the island, remain active, however.
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