Genesis and evolution of a curved mountain front: paleomagnetic and geological evidence from the Gran Sasso range (central Apennines, Italy)

摘要: Abstract The Gran Sasso range is a striking salient formed by two roughly rectilinear E–W and N–S limbs. In the past ∼90° counterclockwise (CCW) rotations from eastern were reported [Tectonophysics 215 (1992) 335], suggesting west–east increase of rotation-related northward shortening along limb. this paper, we report on paleomagnetic data Meso-Cenozoic sedimentary dykes strata cropping out at Corno Grande (central part limb), highest summit Apennine belt. Predominant northwestward declinations (in normal polarity state) both are observed. When compared to expected declination values for Adriatic foreland, our document no thrusting-related rotation Grande. overall set coupled with available geological information shows that arc in fact composite structure, an unrotated-low western (E–W trending) limb strongly CCW rotated salient. Late Messinian post-early Pliocene episodes documented front indicate belt building formation occurred during distinct episodes. We suggest southern late was reactivated early–middle time, forming tight due differential along-front rates. displacing bulge NW–SE chain likely consequence collision between Latium-Abruzzi Apulian carbonate platforms northeastward propagation wedge, inducing lateral extrusion carbonates towards ductile basinal sediment areas.