Definition of tectono-sedimentary elements for rifted continental margins of the Norwegian and Greenland seas

Abstract

Listen

Translate article

The geology of the conjugate continental margins of the Norwegian and Greenland Seas reflects 400 myr of post-Caledonian continental rifting, continental break-up between early Eocene and Miocene times, and subsequent passive-margin conditions accompanying seafloor spreading. During Devonian–Carboniferous time, rifting and continental deposition prevailed, but from the mid-Carboniferous rifting decreased and marine deposition commenced in the north, culminating in a Late Permian open seaway as rifting resumed. The seaway became partly filled by Triassic and Lower Jurassic sediments causing mixed marine–non-marine deposition. A permanent, open seaway was established by the end of the Early Jurassic and was followed by the development of an axial line of deep-marine Cretaceous basins. The final, strong rift pulse of continental break-up occurred along a line oblique to the axis of these basins. The Jan Mayen microcontinent formed by resumed rifting in a part of the East Greenland margin in Eocene–Miocene times. This complex tectonic development is reflected in the sedimentary record in the two conjugate margins, which clearly shows their common pre-break-up geological development. The strong correlation between the two present margins is the basis for defining seven tectono-sedimentary elements (TSEs) and establishing eight composite tectono-sedimentary elements (CTSEs) in the region.