The meeting place of backarc and foreland rifting: The example of the offshore western Sicily (Central Mediterranean)

摘要: Abstract Coeval rifting processes affecting both backarc, thrust belt and foreland occurred in offshore western Sicily (Central Mediterranean) as indicated by the analysis of a large seismic data set calibrated with well data, onshore dredges dedicated GIS software environment. Structural pattern investigated area, 3-D geological models Pliocene-Lower Pleistocene evolution extensional sedimentary basins have been reconstructed. In detail, two zones characterized different directions extension recognized: one trending NE-SW, located south Egadi Islands; another E-W, positioned north Islands. The first group represents continuation those Africa basin (Pelagian Block), second characterizes opening backarc (southern Tyrrhenian margin). Both affect collisional chain (Maghrebian belt). An eastward progression extension, from lower Pliocene to Pleistocene, based on onset fill, has documented Southern margin. study area meeting place that affected late Miocene belt. recognized deformation upper plate adds some constraint geodynamic African Eurasia plates supports model westward dipping slab Central Mediterranean. It is hypothesized along-trench variation nature plates, due paleo-margin configuration, profound impact crustal during convergence thus could represent surficial signature detachment since times.