In volcanic geomorphology, a parasitic cone is a secondary eruptive unit located on the slopes of a larger stratovolcano. It is “parasitic” because it shares the same underlying magma source as the main volcano. When pressure increases and the primary conduit is clogged by solidified lava, magma is diverted through lateral fissures. This results in an eruption on the mountain’s side rather than at the summit. Mount Etna in Sicily is geographically famous for having hundreds of these cones, which create a rugged, multi-peaked profile and increase the geographical area affected by lava flows.