Rifting and seafloor spreading in backarcs: The Bransfield and North Fiji Basis (NW Antarctica and SW Pacific)

This Thesis deals with the study of the rifting and seafloor spreading processes in backarc basins using swath-bathymetry and geophysical data. The geophysical methods used are mainly magnetics and gravity, although other methods, such as seismic reflection and submersible data are also presented in some chapters. Three areas were selected for this study: The Central and Eastern Bransfield Basins, northwest Antarctic Peninsula, and the Central Spreading Ridge and the South Pandora-Tripartite Ridges in the North Fiji Basin, southwest Pacific. The Bransfield Basin is a narrow and elongated active backarc basin located between the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands, at the southwestem edge of the Scotia Arc (Fig. 1 a). The Bransfield Basin is composed of three small basins, Western, Central and Eastern, separated respectively by Deception and Bndgeman Islands. The last two were surveyed by the GEBRA 93 cruise during which full swath-bathymetric coverage, single-channel seismic reflection and magnetic profiles were acquired. The Central Bransfield Basin (Fig. la) is 60 km wide, 230 km long and 1950 m deep, and the structures mainly trend N55-60. The basin morphology is dominated by six large seamounts (labelled A to F) that crop out from the sedimented seafloor of the Central Bransfield Basin and align with the basin axis. The seamounts present circular, semi-circular and elongated morphologies. Moreover, the Eastern Bransfield Basin (Fig. la) is 42 km wide, 150 km long, deeper than 2700 m and trends N40-45. The basin is charactensed by four deep en échelon troughs showing a lozenge shape, and small, scattered volcanic cones mainly located in the southwestern half basin. A total of 119 submarine volcanoes are observed in these two basins, with a predominance of higher edifices (over 150 m high) in the Central Basin. Magnetic anomalies are difficult to identify in the Bransfield Basin, although a positive alignrnent well correlated with the submarine volcanic edifices of the Central Bransfield Basin was recognized and named the Bransfield Rift Anomaly. When this anomaly is tentatively interpreted as Anomaly 1, the maximum age of spreading in the Central Bransfield Basin would be 0.71 Ma and the resulting maximum full rate 0.83mm/year. The free-air gravity anomalies are well correlated with the bathymetric maps. The North Fiji Basin is a mature backarc basin located between two active subduction zones of opposite polarity: the New Hebrides and the Tonga-Kermadec trenches (Fig.lb). Severa1 extensional features and spreading centres have been identified within the North Fiji Basin. Two of these features are studied in detail here: the Central Spreading Ridge and the South Pandora-Tripartite Ridges. The Central Spreading Ridge (Fig. lb) is the most widely explored and best known of al1 the spreading centres identified in the basin, and has been intensively explored during the cruises of the French-Japanese STARMER project (1987-1991). Six cruises were undertaken in the area during this project: 4 surface cruises (swath-bathyrnetry, geophysics and sampling) and 2 diving cruises. The Central Spreading Ridge is more than 800 km long and 50-60 km wide, and is segmented into three first order segments labelled, from north to south, N160, N15 and N-S according to their orientation. The N160 segment is 210 km long and is composed of three second-order segments (CSR1 to CSR3), which are a succession of long en échelon grabens, similar to that of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. The N15 segment is 165 km long and comprises two segments, CSR4 and CSR5. The axial morphology is characterized by a double ridge, split by an axial graben. The N-S segrnent is 255 km long and divided into three second-order segments (CSR6 to CSR8). The segment morphology shows a central flat and rectangular high, like in the East Pacific Rise. Magnetic anomalies up to Anomaly 2A (3.5 Ma) are recognized along the N-S segment, whereas only Anomalies J and 1 (0.97 and 0.7 Ma, respectively) are clearly identified along the other two segments. The calculated spreading rate is intermediate, decreasing northwards from 80 to 50 mm/yr. In addition, there is a change in the axial gravity structure along the Central Spreading Ridge. The mantle Bouguer anomalies obtained on the northern part of the Central Spreading Ridge (N1 60fN 15 segments) show "bull's eye" structures interpreted as the result of mantle upwelling at the middle of the segments. In contrast, the mantle Bouguer anomalies of the southern part of the ridge (N-S segment) are more homogeneous and consistent with the observed smooth topography. The South Pandora-Tripartite Ridges (Fig. lb) are located in the northern part of the  North Fiji Basin, one of the less explored areas of the basin. The area was surveyed by the NOFI cruise during which swath-bathymetry, geophysical and geological data were acquired. The South Pandora-Tripadite system extends over more than 800 km, and three first-order segments are distinguished according to their orientation: N75 and E-W (South Pandora Ridge) and N1 10 (Tripartite Ridge). The N75 segment is 170 km long and is composed of two second-order segments, SPR4 and SPR3. Its axial morphology is dominated by an axial graben disturbed only by an abrupt central seamount in the middle of segment SPR3. The E-W segment is 300 km long and composed of three segments, SPR2, SPRl and SPRO, from west to east respectively. This segment also shows a contrasting longitudinal morphology. The N1 10 segment is 280 km long and composed by TR3, TR2 and TR1 second-order segments. Bathymetric maps show axial seamounts and deep troughs alternating along-axis. Preliminary interpretations of magnetic anomalies are presented, and Anomalies 1 to 3A (7 Ma) are identified along the South Pandora Ridge. The calculated spreading rate is ultra-slow at 16 dyr. In contrast, only Anomaly 1 is clearly identified along the Tripartite Ridge, with a full preading rate decreasing from 8.5 to O rnmíyr towards the southeast. The gravity structure also shows "bull's eye" lows associated with the contrasting volcanic highs. Severa1 points are discussed concerning backarc evolution, the comparison between backarc and midocean ridge spreading, the role of seamount volcanism, differences in thermal regimes along the Central Spreading Ridge, and models of backarc accretion. Themain conclusions are: 1) The three areas studied have been classified in terms of backarc evolutionary stages, from incipient and prespreading rifting stages (Central and Eastern Bransfield Basins, respectively) to well organized seafloor spreading, and from young (Tripartite Ridge) to mature (Central Spreading Ridge and South Pandora Ridge). 2) The present-day opening seems to be related to the rollback of the subduction hinge in the Bransfield Basin. In the North Fiji Basin the opening seems to be linked to a regional thermal anomaly. 3) The initial rifting of the arc may pre-determine the future segmentation of the basin. Even if the accretionary processes are similar in backarc and mid-ocean ridge settings, differences appear concerning ridge segmentation and axial discontinuities. First-order backarc segmentation is short-lived and about half the length of that in mid-ocean ridges. A fundamental dif difference between backarc and mid-ocean ridges is the lack of large fracture zones and transform faults separating the backarc segments. 4) Large seamount volcanism may play a fundamental role in backarc axial  construction, and may be a common characteristic of slow and ultra-slow mature spreading ridges and incipient spreading centres, as observed along the South Pandora-Tripartite Ridges and the Central Bransfield Basin, respectively. 5) The variability of the axial morphology and gravity structure observed along the Central Spreading Ridge is explained in terms of differences in thermal regime. The limits between "cold" and "hot" segments are propagating rifts, which may be interpreted as thermal boundaries. 6) Two end-member models of backarc crustal accretion and mantle upwelling are presented: focused-type and continuous-type accretion. The focused-type would show an extremely contrasted morphology and deep structure along the segments, with punctiform upwe-Ilings. The continuous-type accretion would be homogeneous and uninterrupted along the ridge, with a persistent magma chamber. Interna1 (ridge evolution, spreading rate, thermal regime) and externa1 factors (nature of the surrounding lithosphere, proximity of mantle plurnes and subduction zones) may control the different types of accretion.

How do we explore the seafloor and sub-seafloor? Tools and applications in Marine Geosciences

8 pages, 4 figuresHow do we explore the seafloor and sub-seafloor? Tools and applications in Marine Geosciences. More than 70% of Earth’s surface is covered by the oceans, however, there is little in-depth knowledge of their submarine topography, internal structures and active processes. Progress in marine geosciences is closely linked to technology and the development of specialized instrumentation for geophysical exploration. Thus, the technological revolution that has taken place over recent years will allow us to gain a better understanding of the history and evolution of our planetPeer Reviewe

Structure and activity of the imbricated wedge of the Gulf of Cadiz from MCS images

European Geosciences Union General Assembly 2015 (EGU2015), 12-17 April 2015, Vienna, Austria.-- 1 pageIn this work we present new results on the structure and activity of the imbricated wedge of the Gulf of Cadiz based on ~ 3000 km of multichannel (MCS) profiles acquired off NW Moroccan margin. Seismic images indicates that the imbricated wedge is bounded between the Gulf of Cadiz margin at the north, the Kenitra margin at the south and the Rharb margin at the east. It is imaged as a sedimentary body with variable seismic amplitude, and structured by imbricated thrust sheets similar to an accretionary prism. Its maximum thickness is located at the east region of the gulf. It gradually thins toward the center and south of the gulf, where it is buried by ~ 0.3 twts of sedimentary deposits, indicating that the imbricated wedge is actually not growing. It probably stops it s activity at ~ 5-6 Ma. The imbricated wedge is overlaid by sedimentary sequences whose oldest unit is uppermost Tortonian. No evidences of gravitational (olistostrom) origin were founded. Active deformation related to plate convergence corresponds mainly to strike-slip faulting and minor thrusting. Mud diapirism is imaged intruding both the imbricated wedge and the overlaying sediments. At the south, the seismic images show normal faulting probably related with an extended continental crust or a continent-ocean transition crust. The age of this extension is probably Triassic-Jurassic, and we propose it as the conjugated margin of the Gulf of Cadiz. Toward the east, MCS profiles image high-amplitude continent-verging reflections corresponding to perva- sive normal faulting. These deformation related to a extended terrain, named Rharb margin, seems to act as the backstop of the imbricated wedge, and it is over-thrusted by Prebetic/Flysh sequences off the Strait of GibraltarPeer Reviewe

Very high-resolution seismo-acoustics in the study of seagrasses. The case of posidonia oceanica (Mediterranean sea)

The study of active structures offshore requires very-high resolution seismic imaging in order to observe the most recent layers below sea floor. In the other hand, high penetration methods are necessary to observe deeper reflections for understanding the evolution of the structure throughout the time. The aim of our study is to establish the seismic potential of the offshore segment of the Carboneras Fault, Eastern Betics, based on multiscale seismic imaging. Three different scale methods have been acquired and are compared here: very-high-resolution sub-bottom profiler TOPAS, very-high-resolution single-channel seismic (Sparker) and high-resolution multi-channel seismic. From seismic profiles, faulted Quaternary layers suggest that the Carboneras Fault is active. Sediment coring and dating analysis are used to consider ages for key reflectors observed in TOPAS profiles, and a change in the vertical slip-rate through the Quaternary is inferred.Peer Reviewe

Impact of Fluid circulation in old oceanic Lithosphere on the seismicity of transfOrm-type plate boundaries: The FLOWS project (EU-COST ES1301)

Nuzzo, Marianne ... et. al.-- European Geosciences Union General Assembly 2014 (EGU2014), 27 april - 2 may 2014, Vienna, Austria.-- 1 pageThe recent occurrence of large earthquakes and the discovery of deep fluid seepage calls for a revision of the postulated hydrogeological inactivity and low seismic activity of old oceanic transform-type plate boundaries. Both processes are intrinsically associated. The COST Action FLOWS seeks to merge the expertise of a large number of research groups and supports the development of multidisciplinary knowledge on how seep fluid (bio)chemistry relates to seismicity. It aims to identify (bio)geochemical proxies for the detection of precursory seismic signals and to develop innovative physico-chemical sensors for deep-ocean seismogenic faults. At present, study areas include the Azores-Gibraltar Fracture Zone and the North Anatolian Fault which have generated some of the most devastating earthquakes in Europe. Here we present the latest results from recently-discovered deep-sea mud volcanoes (MVs) located at the rim of the Horseshoe Abyssal Plain, western Gulf of Cadiz (NE Atlantic Ocean). An analysis of the molecular and isotopic composition of hydrocarbon and noble gases is performed on fluids collected at the newly-discovered seeps and in MVs located across the active sedimentary wedge of the Gulf of Cadiz. The tectonic and seismic environments involved vary. However, all active seeps are located along crustal strike-slip faults, which clearly control the seepage of the deep-sourced fluids. Our results yield insights into the effects of the interplay of petroleum migration/trapping, deep sediment dewatering and gas hydrate formation on the geochemical signature of natural gas in deep marine sediments. The cross-disciplinary approach fostered by the FLOWS project yields first indications on the relations between tectonics and seismicity and the secondary processes that shape the geochemical compositions of the fluids transported from deeply buried sediments to the seafloor. It highlights the role of strike-slip faults as the locus of deep fluid transport to the surfacePeer Reviewe

High resolution mapping and seismic imaging in seismogenic zones: Application in SW Iberia and Almeria margin

Marine Technology Workshop (Martech05), 17-18 November 2005, Vilanova i la Geltrú, Barcelona.-- 3 pages, 1 figureThe authors acknowledge the support of the MCYT Acción Especial HITS (REN2000-2150-E), European Commission European Access of Seafloor Survey Systems EASSS-III programme (HPRI-CT99-0047), Spanish national Project IMPULS (REN2003-05996MAR) and ESF EUROMARGINS SWIM project (REN2002-11234-E-MAR)Peer Reviewe

Paleoseismology of active faults based on multiscale seismic imaging

The study of active structures offshore requires very-high resolution seismic imaging in order to observe the most recent layers below sea floor. In the other hand, high penetration methods are necessary to observe deeper reflections for understanding the evolution of the structure throughout the time. The aim of our study is to establish the seismic potential of the offshore segment of the Carboneras Fault, Eastern Betics, based on multiscale seismic imaging. Three different scale methods have been acquired and are compared here: very-high-resolution sub-bottom profiler TOPAS, very-high-resolution single-channel seismic (Sparker) and high-resolution multi-channel seismic. From seismic profiles, faulted Quaternary layers suggest that the Carboneras Fault is active. Sediment coring and dating analysis are used to consider ages for key reflectors observed in TOPAS profiles, and a change in the vertical slip-rate through the Quaternary is inferred.Peer Reviewe

Wide-angle reflection and refraction seismic profile from the outer part of the gulf of Cadiz: nearest-seis cruise.

We will explain the first interpretations from a marine refraction and wide-angle reflection seismic profile acquired in the outer part of the Gulf of Cadiz in November 2008, in the framework of the Nearest-Seis cruise.Peer Reviewe