Fault systems and their mechanisms of the formation and distribution of the Tarim Basin, NW China

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the main controlling factors of development, distribution and evolution of the fault systems in the Tarim Basin. Based on the seismic profile interpretation, comprehensive analysis of the drilling and geologic data, six fault systems maybe recognized in the Tarim Basin, they are the foreland fault system of the South Tianshan Mountain, the northern Tarim uplift fault system, North Tarim depression fault system, central fault system, Southwest Tarim fault system, and Southeast Tarim fault system. It is indicated that the main differences exist at the development, evolution and distribution of the fault systems in the Tarim Basin. The sub-fault systems can be recognized according to the differences of the fault development and distribution in the interior of the fault system. It is characterized that the multi-level differential development and distribution of the fault systems exist in the Tarim Basin. The fault belt developed in the Paleozoic strata mainly distribute at the paleo-uplift and paleo-slope in the interior of the Tarim Basin, and the fault belt occurred in the Meso-Cenozoic beds mainly develop at the peripheral foreland depressions. Zonal and segment differential development and distribution of the fault systems also exist in the Tarim Basin. The formation and distribution of the Tarim fault systems is of complex controlling mechanisms. Poly-phase structural movement and tectonic transition controls the multi-phase differential development and distribution of the fault systems in the Tarim Basin. Multi-level differential development and distribution is controlled by multi-level detachment belt and regional unconformities. Zonal and segment differential development and distribution of the Tarim fault systems maybe controlled by pre-existed basement structural texture. The major direction of the fault systems in the Tarim Basin is controlled by the later stage basin-mountain coupling.