Devonian alkaline magmatism in South Qinling, China: evidence from the Taohekou Formation, Northern Daba Mountain

<p>The Langao area in South Qinling consists of a poorly dated sequence of volcano-sedimentary units (Taohekou Formation). This study focuses on volcanic edifice of Taohekou Formation. Detailed field mapping, section facies analysis, geochemistry, and Ar–Ar geochronology is presented here to develop a more accurate understanding of the tectonic evolution of the Qinling Orogen. Detailed field mapping and section facies analysis reveals the presence of a seamount volcanic edifice in western Xiaozhen area. Ar–Ar dating of alkaline basalts in the sequence indicates an Early Devonian magmatic age. Whole rock geochemistry of these alkaline basalts indicates that both potassic and sodic basalts were erupted respectively in the eastern and western areas. Both types of samples are typically characterized by high concentrations of TiO₂, Nb, Ta, and Zr. Ocean-island basalt (OIB)-like rare earth element distribution patterns, trace element spider diagrams, and similar Sr and Nd isotopic compositions (i.e. relatively low Sr and moderate Nd isotopic ratios) likely indicate that the samples were comagmatic but have experienced varying degrees of fractional crystallization. In addition, the samples appear to have all originated from the asthenospheric mantle and undergone mantle metasomatism, ultimately resulting in an OIB-type provenance. Most importantly, in combination with its regional tectonic evolution, the Taohekou Formation is constrained to a seamount environment. This formation does not represent a plume but, rather, an extensional fracture zone related to subduction. Thus, this geologic interpretation generates pivotal evidence for accurately investigating the properties and temporal constraints of the Mianlue oceanic basin.</p