Mud volcanism, a specific type of subsurface sediment mobilization process known to occur on Earth, has been suggested to explain the formation

On Earth, evolved felsic crust is commonly associated with plate tectonics, specifically subduction zones, and preexisting silicic crust. As Mars
lacks both, felsic rock is unexpected there. However, new studies via remote sensing and in situ observation indicate a wider range of primary rock
compositions on Mars, suggesting an incomplete understanding of how these materials form. Nili Patera, a caldera on the Syrtis Major shield