The evolution of the Carpathians–Pannonian system: Interaction between neotectonics, deep structure, polyphase orogeny and sedimentary basins in a source to sink natural laboratory

Abstract

The Carpathians–Pannonian Basin system provides a natural laboratory for analysing lithospheric to surface controls on tectonic topography development in a coupled source-to-sink environment. To link processes taking place at depth and at the surface, recent research focused on the interplay between basin evolution, active tectonics, topography evolution and intraplate folding mechanisms. Neotectonic processes control landscape development and natural hazards, in particular the seismicity, during the late-stage (Late Neogene–Quaternary) evolution of both the Carpathians–Pannonian Basin system and its interaction with the adjacent Dinarides and Balkans. The deep structure of the SE Carpathians exerts a strong control on the post-collisional evolution of the system. New constraints are available from seismic tomography, deep seismic reflection and refraction profiling and detailed studies of the Vreancea seismicity. Inherited orogenic fabric and structure of the active Black Sea sink has a strong influence on the localisation of the Neogene sediment pathways. A close relationship has been established between the timing and mechanisms of stress changes in the Pannonian and Transylvania basins and structural episodes in the surrounding thrust belts, pointing to an intrinsic mechanical coupling with these basins, the orogen and its foredeep. Basin inversion taking place during the Pliocene–Quaternary times in the entire Carpathians–Pannonian system is related to changes in the regional stress field leading to differential vertical movements associated with a laterally variable folding mechanism active in the entire system. Short, crustal folding patterns alternate with lithospheric wavelengths in the SE Carpathians foreland, East and South Carpathians, Transylvania and Pannonian basins. The lateral variability is the result of a marked contrast in rheology between these areas, directly related to the crustal configuration, thermal properties and late-stage collision kinematics with the Carpathians foreland. Lateral variations in the properties of the downgoing plates largely control the collision mode in the Carpathians and the post-collisional evolution of the entire system.