The tectono-stratigraphic architecture of the Falkland Plateau basin; implications for the evolution of the Falkland Islands Microplate

• DOI: 10.1016/j.gr.2021.09.014
• Publication Date: 2021-10-06T11:13:08Z
• Authors: Roxana M. Stanca; Dave J. McCarthy; Douglas A. Paton; David M. Hodgson; Estelle J. Mortimer
• Keywords: Continental Margin

Commonly, intra-continental wrenching is associated with a high degree of crustal faulting and fragmentation. The resulting continental blocks can undergo vertical-axis rotations, which in turn lead to the generation intricate fault networks within along their boundary regions. Investigations into these structural complexities support understanding when how rotate, what position was prior transform margin formation. In case Falkland Islands Microplate (part Plateau margin), its between South Africa, America, East Antarctica break-up Gondwana still debatable. This uncertainty affects reliability plate models for this region. Here we integrate gravity 2D 3D seismic reflection data from eastern microplate (west side Basin) provide insights tectono-stratigraphic architecture area Jurassic onwards, evolution Microplate. Our findings show that western part Basin an integral microplate, it underwent deformation relatively fast-changing stress regime. Stress field configuration estimates across alternation NE-SW NW-SE/WNW-ESE orientation σ3 during ENE-WSW oriented Lower Cretaceous. Correlations local regional Middle Upper rotation predominantly extensional setting facilitated by early fragmentation south-western Gondwana.