Magnetic anomalies in the Eastern Caribbean

Abstract

Despite the many different studies on the origin and evolution of the Caribbean Plate, no proposal has been widely accepted so far. A key element within this field of research is the characterization of the plate subsurface oceanic crust, as it would clarify the conditions in which it originated, the geological period when it formed and its possible geographical location at this first evolution stage. Based on partial results of this research work, we can say that the conclusions of previous studies are valid to a great extent, namely the NE–SW orientation of the striped magnetic anomalies in the Venezuelan Basin’s western section and the existence of W–E preferentially oriented stripes parallel to the Leeward Antilles. The magnetic response of the triangular section in the southeast of the Venezuelan Basin represents cretaceous magnetic quiet zone (CMQZ) and therefore shows a considerable attenuation of the stripe pattern, indicating that the whole East Caribbean subsurface features oceanic crustal material. As for the period recorded by the Caribbean magnetic stripes, we propose the interval between chrons M23 and M0, and part of CMQZ. The wavelengths of the identified anomalies suggest that the ridge associated with the formation of Caribbean ocean floor was slow-spreading when compared to average currently active ridges.