Distribution characteristics of typical geological relics in the Western Sichuan Plateau

Abstract

Abstract The Western Sichuan Plateau (WSP), located in the eastern margin of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, is the most strongly deformed region of the continental crust in China. Frequent tectonic movements shape the unique topography and landform of the WSP and have also produced abundant geological heritage resources. Based on the existing geological heritage survey data in Sichuan Province, the nearest index analysis method of employing a regional spatial point model was used to reveal the distribution rules and the genetic mechanism of typical geological relics in the WSP for the first time. Results indicate that the formation and distribution of geological relics in the WSP are generally controlled by tectonic movement and supplemented by the comprehensive action of external forces such as flowing water. Their distribution shows a condensed spatial distribution pattern and extends along the strike of a fault zone and river strike strip. Finally, based on the characteristics of geological relics in the WSP, some suggestions on the protection and development of regional geological relics were put forward.