Smooth quotients of generalized Fermat curves

Abstract

A closed Riemann surface $S$ is called a generalized Fermat curve of type $(p,n)$, where $n,p \geq 2$ are integers such that $(p-1)(n-1)>2$, if it admits a group $H \cong {\mathbb Z}_{p}^{n}$ of conformal automorphisms with quotient orbifold $S/H$ of genus zero with exactly $n+1$ cone points, each one of order $p$; in this case $H$ is called a generalized Fermat group of type $(p,n)$. In this case, it is known that $S$ is non-hyperelliptic and that $H$ is its unique generalized Fermat group of type $(p,n)$. Also, explicit equations for them, as a fiber product of classical Fermat curves of degree $p$, are known. For $p$ a prime integer, we describe those subgroups $K$ of $H$ acting freely on $S$, together with algebraic equations for $S/K$, and determine those $K$ such that $S/K$ is hyperelliptic.