“Reflector M” and diapiric structures in the Ionian Sea (Eastern Mediterranean)

Abstract

The nature of reflector M as well as its geographical distribution in the Ionian Sea is reviewed. Based on the results of “Meteor” cruise no.50 the published “diapiric structures” from the Ionian Sea are criticized. The author concludes that neither diapirs associated with the Messinian evaporites nor diapir-like subbottom structures originating from volcanism exist. It is speculated that the strong reflector called “M” within the Mediterranean Ridge is caused by the top of the pre-Messinian strata, implying a lack of evaporites due to the existence of the Ridge already in Messinian time.