Metasedimentary Sequence Research Articles

Geological position of the Junggar terrane (Southern Kazakhstan) in the structure of Rodinia supercontinent: results of research of the late-precambrian metasedimentary complexes

The results of studying of the Precambrian metasedimentary sequences of the Junggar terrane located in South Kazakhstan are given in the article. In the structure of the Junggar terrane, we studied the rocks of the Sarychebyn group and Kosagash formation. Petrogeochemical data combined with the results of U‒Pb and Lu‒Hf isotope-geochronological studies of the detrital zircons showed that the Sarychebyn Group and the Kosagash formation represent a similar stratigraphic level that accumulation occurred in the Late Mesoproterozoic to Early Neoproterozoic (~1026‒~920 Ma). The main sources of the detrital zircon age populations were the Mesoproterozoic and Paleoproterozoic complexes. Among these complexes can be identified metabasites and metapelites of intermediate and high metamorphic grades, as well as felsic igneous rocks formed with the participation of various sources, can be distinguished. The Junggar terrane exhibits a close tectonic affinity with the Aktau-Mointy, Yili, Issyk-Kul, Chinese Central Tien-Shan, and the Northern Kazakhstan terranes in the Late Precambrian. They were probably located near the Sveconorwegian orogen in the western Baltica within the Rodinia supercontinent structure.

Metasedimentary “carbon filter” and its implication for subduction zone carbon recycling

The movement of carbon in subduction zones plays a crucial role in regulating the global carbon cycle, controlling Earth's climate, and maintaining its habitability. Recent work suggests that only a fraction of the carbon released from subducting slabs at sub-arc depths is ultimately released from volcanic arcs, necessitating the existence of hidden carbon reservoirs within the slab-to-arc pathways. However, the precise location of these reservoirs remains enigmatic. Slab fluid serves as the primary medium for carbon transport in subduction zones; thus, a comprehensive understanding of fluid-rock interaction during slab fluid migration is essential for reconciling the carbon flux imbalance between the slab and the arc. In this study, we explore rock carbonation along a fluid conduit in the Southwestern Tianshan HP metamorphic belt in northwest China. Field evidence and petrologic observation reveal significant carbonation of a siliciclastic metasediment at its contact with a high-pressure garnet-bearing calcite (formerly aragonite) vein. We find that rock carbonation (by progressive Fe-bearing magnesite, dolomite, then aragonite precipitation) occurred when slab-derived carbonic fluids migrated through the metasedimentary sequence at approximately 80 km depth. Furthermore, modeling demonstrates that the metasedimentary layer atop the slab has the capacity to sequester 20%–50% of the fluid carbon from the ascending slab devolatilization flux. We propose that the metasedimentary veneer at the plate interface functions as a “carbon filter”, hindering the transfer of carbon from the slab to the arc and helping to reconcile the carbon flux imbalance between the amount released by the slab and that emitted by the arc. This study also provides insights into decarbonation efficiency and mechanisms, carbon-transfer pathways, and temporal aspects of the subduction zone carbon cycle.

Dating syn-orogenic exhumation of subducted continental crust: The case of the Northern Apennines

Dating deformation is key to unravel the evolution of orogens. Unfortunately, this is commonly challenged by the occurrence in the rock record of multiple overprinting deformation stages that lead to repeated blastesis and form multiple fabrics during both prograde and retrograde evolutions. Additionally, recrystallization is not always complete, which causes a mixture of inherited and neoblastic mineral phases. Therefore, an approach integrating age dating with microstructural and petrographic analyses is necessary to extract structurally constrained ages from the rock record. We used this approach to contribute to the long-lasting debate about exhumation of continental metamorphic units subducted to high-pressure conditions. We studied continental metasedimentary sequences of the Tuscan Metamorphic Units of the Northern Apennines (Italy) from two localities: the Island of Giglio to the west and the Monticiano-Roccastrada Unit to the east. We obtained two analytically distinct 40Ar/39Ar age ranges: an older 21–16 Ma age cluster is related to syn-orogenic top-to-the E contractional deformation occurring at ca. 1 GPa and 350 °C. A younger 15–11 Ma age group is related, instead, to exhumation to shallower structural levels and retrogression of these units to greenschist facies conditions. The interpretation of the results is based on white mica chemical compositions and rock fabrics. By integrating our results with published literature, we conclude that the investigated high-pressure continental metasedimentary sequences experienced early syn-orogenic exhumation from blueschist to greenschist facies conditions predominantly by a combination of extrusion and out- and in-sequence thrusting, with only minor contributions by extensional shearing during regional crustal thinning. Therefore, this study highlights the role of contractional fabrics in accommodating significant exhumation amounts of deeply subducted continental rocks.

Application of Geophysical Methods in the Identification of Mineralized Structures and Ranking of Areas for Drilling as Exemplified by Alto Guaporé Orogenic Gold Province

Mineral exploration works conducted in the Alto Guaporé Gold Province (AGGP), situated in the southwest region of the Amazon Craton in Brazil, faces the challenges of many gold provinces around the world, i.e., declines in the discoveries of new economic deposits and increases in exploration costs. Ground geophysical methods, combined with structural analyses and geological mapping, are valuable tools that have potential to improve accuracy in selecting exploration targets and in determining drilling locations. AGGP deposits are primarily associated with regional N20°–W50° inverse faulting and sheared geologic contacts between Meso-Neoproterozoic siliciclastic metasedimentary rocks and Mesoproterozoic basement (granite and volcano–sedimentary sequences). Mining currently occurring in the central portion of the province drives exploration works towards the many existing targets at the area. Among them, the ABP target is one of the most promising for being located few kilometers north of the Pau-a-Pique mine. At the ABP target, gold is associated with hydrothermal alteration located in the sheared contacts and in the hinge zone of folded metasedimentary sequence. Hydrothermal phases include Fe-oxides, sulfide (py), muscovite and quartz veins. In this study, we use magnetic and geoelectric (induced polarization) surveys coupled with structural and geological mapping to identify potential footprints within the ABP target. The results from induced polarization (IP) profiles successfully mapped the shape and orientation of the main structures down to approximately 350 m at the ABP target, indicating potential locations for hydrothermal alteration hosting gold. Additionally, 3D magnetic data inversions illustrated the distribution of magnetic susceptibilities and magnetization vectors associated with shear zone structures and isolated magnetic bodies. Magnetic data highlighted fault zones along the contacts between metamorphic rocks and granites, while IP data identified areas with high chargeability, correlating with sulfidation zones mineralized with gold. These findings suggest a metallogenic model where gold deposits are transported through deep structures connected to regional faults, implying significant tectonic and structural control over gold deposition. The results underscore the potential of multiparameter geophysics in identifying and characterizing deposits in both deep and strike, thereby advancing our understanding of mineral occurrences in the region and enhancing the search for new mineralized zones.

An oblique transpressive soft-collision records the amalgamation of the Siderian-Orosirian Mineiro belt (Brazil) and the São Francisco paleo-craton (Kenorland Supercontinent): Insights from the Bom Sucesso metasedimentary sequence

The southernmost São Francisco craton carries a long and polycyclic tectonic evolution from the Archean to the Proterozoic. The worldwide characterizations of rocks formed between these Eons, such as those of the Bom Sucesso metasedimentary sequence, is key to understand significant changes on Earth's geodynamic and atmosphere. This sequence is located between two important geotectonic domains in Brazil: the Archean São Francisco paleo-craton (a piece of the Kenorland Supercontinent) and the Siderian-Orosirian Mineiro belt. Although the Bom Sucesso metasedimentary sequence presents a strategic position to investigate the docking between different tectonic domains, longtime tectono-metamorphic episodes challenge the full understanding of the broad tectonic scenario. This work was performed aiming to unravel the links between the tectonic evolution of the Bom Sucesso metasedimentary sequence and their adjoining domains, represented by the Archean São Francisco paleo-craton and the Paleoproterozoic Mineiro belt. The original sedimentation of the Lagoa da Prata unit at the base of the Bom Sucesso metasedimentary sequence, the Bom Sucesso Banded Iron Formation and the Tabuãozinho unit developed in a passive margin setting with different Archean sources associated with nearby orthogneisses and metagranites of the São Francisco paleo-craton. This sequence yields an MDA of 2615 ± 4 Ma and is chronocorrelated to the Moeda Fm. at the base of the Minas Supergroup. After the deposition of the Bom Sucesso metasedimentary sequence in a passive margin setting, the amalgamation of the Paleoproterozoic Mineiro belt to the São Francisco paleo-craton between ca. 2.07 and 2.00 Ga by a soft-collision process produced two distinct compressional events. The first with N–S direction (σ1 = 181/16) originated 2 km-scale thrust faults, associated with a transcurrent movement between the Bom Sucesso metasedimentary sequence and both the adjoining Archean and Paleoproterozoic domains. The same compressional event also developed tectonic foliations under amphibolite facies conditions (2.8–6.3 kbar; 550–632 °C) and imprints a sillimanite-andalusite isograd along the Ibituruna and Bom Sucesso ridges. The second event has a NW-SE direction (σ1 = 333/18) and produced crosscutting structures under a ductile-brittle regime at lower temperatures been considered as retrogressive. A thermal influence of the Brasiliano orogeny in the region is suggested by new LA-ICPMS zircon Concordia age of 623 ± 4 Ma obtained in a garnet schist of the Lagoa da Prata unit, which is in agreement with Neoproterozoic Concordia Lower intercepts (probably Pb-loss) reported in zircon grains, and Ar–Ar ages (biotite) obtained along most of the Mineiro Belt area. This age may imply in a superposition of temporally distinct metamorphic events (Paleoproterozoic and Neoproterozoic) on the rocks of the Bom Sucesso metasedimentary sequence. The structural, metamorphic, and geochronologic data presented here brings new insights on structural and P-T-X conditions of the Paleoproterozoic geotectonic evolution of the southernmost São Francisco craton.

The El Gigante Metamorphic Complex: A missing block with a Grenville-age basement in the Western Sierras Pampeanas, Argentina

The southwestern paleo-margin of Gondwana is interpreted as an accretionary margin that was active from the late Neoproterozoic to the late Paleozoic. The basement of this paleo-margin is widely exposed in the central-western part of Argentina (Sierras Pampeanas area), where a protracted evolution from the Mesoproterozoic to the late Paleozoic is recorded. Part of this evolution is preserved in the El Gigante Metamorphic Complex (Sierra de El Gigante; Western Sierras Pampeanas), a small rotated block within the Valle Fértil Lineament fault zone that separates the Western and Eastern Sierras Pampeanas. The complex is composed of medium-grade meta-siliciclastic and meta-carbonate rocks and medium- to high-grade meta-igneous rocks, affected by tight to isoclinal folds and a pervasive east–west foliation resulting from the Famatinian orogeny (broadly late Cambrian to early Devonian). Later events include localized ductile shear zones. The isotopic and geochronological data from El Gigante Metamorphic Complex reveal at least three distinct lithological assemblages: (1) metamorphosed felsic igneous rocks of ca. 1.11 Ga, i.e., late Mesoproterozoic, (2) a Neoproterozoic metasedimentary succession composed of quartzites and mica-schists, (3) possibly mid- to late-Cambrian marble and graphite-schist. The Grenvillian assemblage (1) was part of a large reworked Paleoproterozoic continental block called MARA (acronym of Maz-Arequipa-Río Apa) and was the basement over which the Neoproterozoic and Cambrian sedimentary successions were deposited. Based on U-Pb zircon ages, lithological similarities and Sr-isotope data, the three lithological assemblages of the El Gigante Metamorphic Complex can be correlated with similar ones in the nearby geologically better-known Sierra de Pie de Palo. The Neoproterozoic and the Cambrian metasedimentary successions are respectively equivalent to the Difunta Correa Metasedimentary Sequence and the Nikizanga-Caucete Groups, which are recognized throughout the Sierras Pampeanas, east and west of the Valle Fértil Lineament.

The passive margin of the southern São Francisco paleocontinent, metamorphic record and implications for the assembly of West Gondwana: Evidence from the Lima Duarte Nappe, Ribeira Orogen (SE Brazil)

In this contribution, we report new P-T (pressure–temperature) and U-Pb zircon geochronological data from the Lima Duarte Nappe and basement rocks from the Mantiqueira Complex, Central Ribeira Orogen, southeastern Brazil, highlighting their relevance to the understanding of the West Gondwana assembly. The lower metasedimentary sequence of the Lima Duarte Nappe records a passive margin environment, with a majority of Paleoproterozoic detrital zircon grains, with probable main source rocks located in the São Francisco paleocontinent. The upper foreland sequence of the Lima Duarte Nappe has a prevalence of Tonian-Cryogenian detrital zircon grains, absent in the lower passive margin sequence and source rocks were most likely in a magmatic arc developed during the convergence between the São Francisco and the Paranapanema paleoplates. Zircon rims from the Lima Duarte passive margin and foreland sequences, and zircon grains from an amphibolite of the Lima Duarte Nappe record granulite facies metamorphism at ca. 560–590 Ma (Th/U ratio < 0.1). Similar ages are recorded by CL-dark zircon rims and overgrowths in orthogneisses of the Mantiqueira Complex and are interpreted to reflect basement reworking. Metapelitic metatexites from the foreland sequence record granulite facies peak metamorphism at ∼ 780–800 °C and 8–9.5 kbar in the sillimanite-rutile stability field, constrained by phase equilibrium modeling. Rutile inclusions in garnet record minimum peak temperatures of ∼ 750 °C. The retrograde mineral assemblage in the matrix is marked by the disappearance of rutile and the presence of ilmenite and mineral compositions re-equilibrated at upper amphibolite facies. Late Tonian (ca. 850–750 Ma) metamafic rocks within the Mantiqueira and Juiz de Fora complexes might record an extensional intraplate mafic magmatism episode that culminated with the establishment of the passive margin at the south of the São Francisco paleocontinent. The Lima Duarte metasedimentary sequence along with the Canastra and Carrancas groups (western and southern portions of the Brasília Orogen, respectively) represent a Tonian proximal passive margin environment, developed at the margin of the São Francisco paleocontinent. The Lima Duarte Nappe metasedimentary units and the orthogneisses of the Mantiqueira Complex record Ediacaran syn-collisional metamorphism related to the Araçuaí-Ribeira Orogenic System.

Geochemical and isotopic evidence for early neoproterozoic (ca. 1000 Ma) subduction-related magmatism in the central Borborema Province, Brazil

Early Neoproterozoic (1000-920 Ma) rocks related to the Cariris Velhos event in the central Borborema Province have been linked to either continental rifting or accretionary-collisional orogenesis. The Serra do Jatobá Suite is located in the southwestern part of the Alto Pajeú Terrane along with coeval metasedimentary sequences and Ediacaran granites. This suite is composed of alkali-calcic, meta-to peraluminous granodiorites to monzogranites that share similarities with both ferroan- and magnesian granite series. Chondrite normalized REE (Rare Earth Elements) patterns are moderately fractionated with pronounced negative Eu anomalies. Incompatible element spidergrams show a negative Nb–Ta anomaly, similar to those observed in Cordilleran-type granites. U–Pb zircon data constrain the crystallization ages at around 1000 Ma, whereas calculated εNd(t) values range between −1.74 and −0.94. Obtained TDM model ages range from 1.76 to 1.54 Ga, which corresponds with source ages for the Cariris Velhos magmatic rocks. Our findings suggest that subduction took place in the early Neoproterozoic in the Borborema Province, pointing to an accretionary nature for the Cariris Velhos event.

New evidence for the presence of the Inner Tauride Ocean: Lithological, geochronological and P-T correlations with the Tavşanlı and Afyon zones of Central Anatolia (Türkiye)

The Tavşanlı and Afyon zones, which are well defined in western Türkiye, represent high pressure-low temperature (HP-LT) metamorphic rocks formed in a subduction zone. The Korumaz and Hınzır mountains (northeast of Kayseri) between the Central Anatolian Crystalline Complex and the Eastern Tauride Belt are represented by a HP-LT metamorphic sequence, which is thought to have formed between the Carboniferous and the Cretaceous. Here we present 40Ar/39Ar data from white micas within the Lower-Middle Triassic calc-phyllites from Korumaz Mountain, which yielded an age of 87 ± 2 Ma. Therefore, based on new mineralogical and geochronological data we suggest that this low-grade (HP-LT) metasedimentary sequence correlates with the Afyon Zone. Tectonically emplaced on-top of the HP-LT metasedimentary units of the Korumaz and Hınzır mountains is a meta-accretionary complex consisting of serpentinite, listvenite, marble, phyllite, calc-phyllite, metabasite, and meta-plagiogranite. Petrographic and mineral chemical studies show that the meta-accretionary complex was subjected to metamorphism under the HP-LT conditions that are similar to those of the Tavşanlı Zone in western Türkiye. Zircon Hf isotopic compositions from the meta-plagiogranite in the Korumaz and Hınzır mountains exhibit a depleted mantle signature with positive epsilon Hf(t) values of +5.6 to +13.1, and yielded a U-Pb crystallization age of 101.14 ± 0.84 Ma, which is the oldest age determined in oceanic crustal rocks of the ophiolites from the Tauride Belt. Geochemically, the metabasites and meta-plagiogranites from the meta-accretionary complex show subduction-related characteristics. White micas from phyllites and listvenite, which dominate the matrix of the meta-accretionary complex, yielded 40Ar/39Ar metamorphic ages ranging from 78 to 60 Ma. Our new geological and geochronological data suggest that metamorphic units of the Korumaz and Hınzır mountains are the eastern continuation of the Afyon and Tavşanlı zones. This indicates that the Inner Tauride Ocean, the existence of which has been controversial in the literature, was indeed present between the Central Anatolian Crystalline Complex and the Eastern Tauride Belt.

Geochemical and mechanical interactions within sheet-like granite intrusion during stress-field changeover (Moldanubian Batholith; Central European Variscides)

Late-orogenic granitoids carry unique geochemical and structural evidence of post-collisional exhumation, commonly associated with decompression melting, mixing and mingling of individual magma pulses and differentiation. The Weinsberg Type Granitoids (WTG) forming the 313.6 Ma Kaplice Sheet and 322 Ma Hojná Voda Sheet (northwestern Weinsberg Composite Pluton) have geochemical signature that demonstrates the substantial role played by the partial melting of metasedimentary sequences and the magmatic fractionation of K-feldspar, plagioclase and biotite during magma ascent and emplacement. The composition of highly peraluminous WTG were partly modified by the assimilation of host metasedimentary xenoliths. The textures of the WTG are characterised by straight crystal size distribution (CSD) consistent with in-situ crystallization and crystal/melt separation, forming abundant K-feldspar phenocryst-rich domains (KPD). The KPD were formed by redistribution of K-feldspar phenocrysts (crystal accumulation) in a suspension during magma movement followed by interstitial melt extraction and escape from the highly crystallised mush. The multiple fabric pattern within the Kaplice Sheet is the result of changeover of local stress field by varying increment of regional stress conditions and buoyancy forces at the time of magma ascent and emplacement. The steeply dipping foliation (M1) reflects the magma flow with the increment of regional stress-field (ENE–WSW oriented extension). The superimposition of flat-lying foliation (M2) with abundant particle accumulations (i.e. K-feldspar phenocrysts, enclaves and host-rock xenoliths) were associated with (a) increasing buoyancy force in ascending magma above the rate of the regional stress field or (b) collapse of ascending magma after the decreasing the buoyancy force resulting in the mush moving down.

Geology and geochronology of Cerros San Juan formation (department of Colonia, Uruguay), Río de la Plata Craton

The Cerros San Juan Formation is located in the southwest of the Colonia Department, in Uruguay. It is represented by a metavolcanosedimentary sequence in green schist facies, locally reaching amphibolite facies. This formation outcrops poorly into two separated blocks by a dextral N30°W fault. These blocks, named East and West, present N30° - 50°E and N50° - 70°E general trends, respectively. The unit is largely covered by Cenozoic deposits and soil cover and its main exposure occurs in the San Juan Hill. The metasedimentary sequence is represented by marbles with tremolite, schists with talc, schists with chlorite, schists with quartz and epidote, metaconglomerates, quartzites rich in hornblende and quartzites sensu stricto. The metavolcanic sequence comprises metatuffs, metarhyolites, metarhyodacites, metaandesites and metabasalts. Associated granophyric rocks occur locally. The whole rock chemical analysis of the metavolcanic unit shows that the acidic metalavas have calc-alkaline and peraluminous affinity, while the basic metalavas have tholeiitic to transitional and metaluminous affinity. The metalavas of the San José Belt, developed to the east of Cerros San Juan Formation, show similar geochemical behavior in general terms. The isotopic data obtained by zircon U–Pb SHRIMP (ca. 2.1 Ga), together with the petrological and geochemical data, suggest that the sequence could be related to a convergent or orogenic environment.

Magmatic arc evolution during the tectonic closure of the Rocas Verdes basin: insights from Cretaceous–earliest Paleocene intrusive rocks of Navarino Island (55°S), Fuegian Andes

Navarino Island is located in the southernmost part of the Fuegian Andes, south of the Beagle Channel. Its geological record documents the complex tectonic history of Tierra del Fuego, which includes the opening and closure of the Rocas Verdes basin, Cordillera arc collision and subsequent subduction processes. The geology of the island is mostly composed of the Cretaceous Yahgán Formation, a marine metasedimentary sequence, which is intruded by diverse plutons that are mostly exposed on the northwestern tip of the island. We herein present a new dataset that shows the presence of three Cretaceous–earliest Paleocene magmatic suites of active margin magmatism emplaced during the early stage of the Fuegian Andes, which are referred to as (1) the Dientes de Navarino Microdioritic Sills, a suite of pre-tectonic microdioritic sills that formed at c. 101–97 Ma; (2) the Castores Plutonic Complex, a series of pre- to syntectonic gabbroic to tonalitic plutons emplaced at c. 90–87 Ma, and (3) the Samantha Monzonites, a suite of isolated monzonitic to monzodioritic post-tectonic plutons that formed at c. 66–65 Ma. These distinct magmatic episodes are recognized by field observations, geological mapping, petrography and whole-rock geochemistry integrated with amphibole and biotite 40 Ar/ 39 Ar and U–Pb LA-ICP-MS. The geochemical compositions of these rocks are consistent with a continental arc setting that existed during the interval c. 101–65 Ma. Whereas the three pulses spatially overlap in Navarino Island, the arc magmatism shows a migration (or expansion) throughout the Late Cretaceous. The locus of the arc then migrates at c. 68–66 Ma towards the SW. We suggest that this trenchward migration at c. 68–66 Ma may be associated with a change in the subduction angle. The three Cretaceous–earliest Paleocene plutonic pulses recorded in Navarino Island formed during the early stages of development of the Fuegian Andes, and are pre-, syn- and post-tectonic with respect to a major compressional event caused by the collision and obduction of the back-arc Rocas Verdes oceanic floor. Supplementary material: A detailed dataset is available at https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.6675416

Geochemistry of Hindoli Group Metasediments, SE Aravalli Craton, NW India: Implications on Provenance Characteristics and Tectonic Setting

Abstract The NE-SW trending Jahazpur Belt in NW India has been considered correlative with the Aravalli Fold Belt, based on lithological similarities and greenschist facies metamorphic assemblages. The 2.54 Ga ‘Jahazpur Granite’ constitutes the basement for the overlying Hindoli and Jahazpur Group sediments in this belt. These meta sedimentary sequences presently occur as a greenschist facies ensemble of phyllite, marble, greywacke, and meta-conglomerate. In this study, the trace and Rare Earth Elements geochemistry of the Paleoproterozoic Hindoli Group metapelites and metagreywackes was evaluated for source characterization and tectonic setting. The transition metals and Th, La abundances, and Th/Sc, Zr/Sc and La/Sc ratios (1.19 and 1.5, 21.31 and 17.35 and 4.02 and 2.97, for metapelites and metagreywackes, respectively) of Hindoli Group suggest a felsic source for them and some degree of sediment maturity. Both Hindoli metapelites and metagreywackes are enriched in LREE and display significant negative Eu anomalies, further substantiating a predominant felsic component in the source region. The provenance modeling calculations indicate that the detritus was mainly sourced from Mangalwar Complex, along with some inputs from Jahazpur Granite, Bundelkhand TTG and Hindoli volcanics. Geochemical characteristics also discriminate a continental collision associated with an Active Continental Margin tectonic setting for the deposition of Hindoli sediments.

Geochemical constraints on the provenance and tectonic setting of metasedimentary rocks from the South Delhi Supergroup, NW India: implications for tectonic evolution of western margin of the Aravalli orogen

ABSTRACT The provenance and tectonic setting of the Stenian (<1200 to 1015 Ma) metasedimentary sequences of the South Delhi Supergroup, NW India, are least understood and thus debatable. The results of this study show that the protoliths of the metasedimentary rocks received detritus dominantly from felsic sources, particularly from Mesoproterozoic granitoids exposed in northern and eastern India. The weathering indices suggest low to moderate weathering in the source areas and that the sediment compositions reflect mixing of provenance components having different compositions. Overall, the REE patterns of the South Delhi rocks are similar with variable negative Eu anomalies and absolute ∑REE contents. The low REE abundances in the quartzites are the consequence of quartz dilution during hydraulic sorting. The tectonic multidimensional discrimination diagrams suggest a passive margin setting for the South Delhi metasedimentary rocks, which is in consonance with the detrital zircon age spectra and regional geology of the western margin of Aravalli orogen, NW India.

The Cuesta de Rahue Basement Inlier (Southern Neuquén Precordillera, Argentina): a Devonian to Triassic polyphase orogenic record in northern Patagonia

We present new geological, structural and microstructural data, together with K–Ar biotite and illite geochronological data, for the igneous–metamorphic rocks exposed in the Cuesta de Rahue Basement Inlier in the Southern Neuquén Precordillera, Argentina. We use these data to reconstruct the Late Paleozoic to Mesozoic tectonometamorphic and magmatic history of northwestern Patagonia. This block consists of a medium-grade metasedimentary sequence (the Cuesta de Rahue Metamorphic Complex), Late Carboniferous granitoids and a low-grade metavolcano-sedimentary unit (the Arroyo Coloco Metamorphic Complex). The Cuesta de Rahue Metamorphic Complex was deposited during the mid-Paleozoic and underwent Devonian low-pressure regional metamorphism, followed by the intrusion of granitoids at c. 300 Ma. By contrast, the Arroyo Coloco Metamorphic Complex records deformation and metamorphism under epizonal conditions (&gt;300°C), constrained at c. 232–199 Ma by K–Ar and X-ray diffraction illite data. The Cuesta de Rahue Basement Inlier thus records a protracted orogenic evolution, recording Devonian metamorphism, Late Carboniferous–Permian Gondwanide tectonomagmatic processes, and Late Triassic deformation and metamorphism. This block was later affected by Mesozoic normal faulting and Miocene–Pliocene Andean deformation. The Andean deformation was intimately related to the reactivation of inherited basement fabrics, favouring a transpressional deformation regime. Supplementary material: Supplementary Material 1 – Analytical procedures is available at https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.6484467

The Serra da Serpentina Group: a back-arc basin related to the Paleoproterozoic Minas-Bahia orogeny?

In the Rhyacian and Orosirian periods, Archean crustal fragments and Paleoproterozoic magmatic arcs were amalgamated into the São Francisco-Congo Paleocontinent during the Minas-Bahia orogeny. In the foreland terranes of the orogen, a BIF-bearing metasedimentary sequence including the Serra da Serpentina Group and its correlates is extensively exposed but still poorly characterized. A geochemical study undertaken in the basal succession of Serra da Serpentina Group comprising schists, phyllites, and quartzites of the Meloso Formation, delineates the characteristics of the sediment source and constrain the tectonic environment and crustal evolution of the Serra da Serpentina basin. Trace and REE geochemistry studies reveal that clastic sediments of the Meloso Formation comprise mantle and upper crustal-derived source components. The meta-ultramafic Serro-Alvorada de Minas Suite, the Minas-Bahia magmatic rocks, and the Archean TTG terranes are the main potential source rocks for the Meloso basin infilling, as also suggested by the detrital zircon age spectra.Our results suggest the opening of a back-arc basin stretching along the Mantiqueira magmatic arc in response to the Minas-Bahia Orogen during the Rhyacian-Orosirian. The Serra da Serpentina Group was deposited in this environment associated with crustal thinning and local development of submarine volcanism. This assembly shares similarities with the upper Minas Supergroup that comprises the Piracicaba and Sabará groups, suggesting a cogenetic sedimentation.

One billion years of tectonism at the Paleoproterozoic interface of North and South Australia

The Mount Woods Domain, in the northeastern Gawler Craton, occupies a tectonically important location in Proterozoic Australia, yet there is very little published U–Pb geochronology data from this region to underpin tectonic models. New LA-ICP-MS U–Pb monazite and detrital zircon geochronology reveal Archean to Paleoproterozoic basement in the central Mount Woods Domain, comprising metasedimentary rocks and garnet-bearing granite with protolith ages of c. 2550–2400 Ma and metasedimentary rocks deposited after c. 1855 Ma. The southern Mount Woods Domain contains younger metasedimentary sequences deposited after 1750 Ma. Metamorphic monazite and zircon geochronology combined with phase equilibria modelling show the rocks of the central Mount Woods Domain were metamorphosed to granulite facies between 1700 and 1670 Ma, reaching pressure and temperature conditions of 4.8–5.3 kbar and 800–840 °C. Monazite geochronology from samples located along major shear zones and in the westernmost Mount Woods Domain record amphibolite facies metamorphism and reworking at 1570–1550 Ma, with a further phase of shear zone activity along the northern margin of the Mount Woods Domain at c. 1480 Ma. Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-QQQ-MS) Rb–Sr biotite ages from across the Mount Woods Domain range between 1480 and 1390 Ma. The protracted geological history in the Mount Woods Domain from c. 2500–1400 Ma provides a piercing point linking different regions of Proterozoic Australia and western Laurentia during the tenure of the Nuna supercontinent.

ON PALEOTECTONIC BELONGING OF THE SUVANYAK METAMORPHIC COMPLEX (SOUTHERN URALS) FROM THE U-Th-Pb DATING OF DETRITAL ZIRCON GRAINS

U-Th-Pb isotope dating of grains of detrital zircon from quartzites of the Suvanyak metamorphic complex, which forms the Suvanyak tectonic unit that forms the western part of the Uraltau uplift, located in the east of the West Ural megazone in the Southern Urals. The results of isotope dating of grains of detrital zircon from quartzites of the southern part of the Suvanyak metamorphic complex (samples G18-1 and R14-396) show that numerous populations of Late Neoproterozoic–Early Cambrian detrital zircon grains suggest a Peri-Gondwanan origin of the primary sources of detrital material for the protolith of the studied rocks.The structure of the Suvanyak tectonic unit involves metamorphic formations of different ages – Early Paleozoic in the south and Late Precambrian in the north, which are now formally united into a single Suvanyak metamorphic complex. Their differentiation requires additional research.For the Late Paleozoic southeastern margin of the Baltica (at that time already involved in the structure of the composite continent Arct-Laurussia), according to the results of isotope-geochronological study of detrital zircon from the sedimentary and metasedimentary sequences of the Southern Urals, a number of the following tectonic structures were identified. Near the southeastern edge of the margin, there was a Late Neoproterozoic–Early Cambrian oceanic basin, within which a volcanic arc or arcs were active during 650–520 Ma. The structure of the southeastern edge of the margin included the Peri-Gondwanan terrane or terranes (? Cadomian type), as well as thick Riphean-Early Paleozoic sedimentary sequences, autochthonous to the Baltica.

A review of the geophysical knowledge of the Borborema Province, NE-Brazil, and tectonic implications

This review summarizes the results of nearly 50 years of application of geophysical data to study tectonic problems in Borborema Province (BP), Northeastern Brazil. Much information has been obtained from the interpretation of magnetic, gamma-ray spectrometry, gravity, seismological, magnetotelluric, deep seismic and heat flow data. The resulting picture is that, in comparison with other Brazilian geological domains, BP has a thin crust, a lithosphere with small effective elastic thickness, the presence of predominantly positive free-air gravity anomalies, besides the most expressive geoid anomaly, in addition to relatively high heat flow and intraplate seismicity. These facts reinforce the hypothesis that the BP lithosphere suffered a strong impact in Gondwana fragmentation. Predominantly positive free-air gravity anomalies reveal that part of the province has not yet reached isostatic equilibrium. Gravity data established the boundaries of the BP crustal block with neighboring blocks; in particular, the crustal boundary with the São Francisco Craton is located in the innermost regions of the marginal fold belt, tens of kilometers at the north of the conventional limit. Magnetic data allowed to infer the continuity of basement structures beneath sedimentary basins, in particular that BP continues to the Transbrasiliano Lineament, underneath the sedimentary of the Parnaíba Basin. In addition, enhanced magnetic maps made it possible assessing the amount of deformation associated with the major shear zones and identified a continental-scale Cretaceous dike system crossing the BP. Gamma-ray spectrometry data allowed extensive geological mapping of metasedimentary sequences, granitic intrusions and basement complexes. Seismological data allowed to recognize that major shear zones in BP have lithospheric significance. Deep seismic data evidenced a well-defined contrast between the upper and lower crust in BP (Conrad discontinuity). Magnetotelluric data revealed several deep geoelectrical anomalies in BP, some of them interpreted as relics of subduction zones. Intraplate seismicity studies allowed inferring that the current stress state in the BP upper crust is predominantly transcurrent. The list of open problems in BP is also expressive. Notable examples are: a) it has not yet been possible to define which type of orogeny (accretionary or intracontinental?) was dominant in the Neoproterozoic; b) the cause of the expressive geoid anomaly is unknown; c) the tectonic significance of the Transbrasiliano Lineament (collisional suture? Just an intracontinental shear zone?) is also unknown. Regarding economic applications, the use of geophysical data to prospect new ore deposits is still relatively poor. We hope that this review can contribute to increase the familiarity and acceptance of geophysical results by the geological community.

Cadomian to Cenerian accretionary orogenic processes in the Alpine basement: the detrital zircon archive

New whole-rock geochemical and detrital zircon U–Pb and Lu–Hf data of metasedimentary sequences of the Silvretta Nappe, Orobic Alps, Strona-Ceneri Zone, Gotthard Massif and Venediger Nappe are presented. These units seem to share a common early to middle Paleozoic geological record, which has alternatively been interpreted as the result of intraplate or orogenic processes. Detrital zircon data mainly indicate late Ediacaran to early Ordovician maximum sedimentation ages for the studied sequences, suggesting that they were intimately related to Cadomian and Cenerian orogenic processes along the northwestern Gondwana margin. The common presence of late Ediacaran to Cambrian Cadomian ages associated with variable subchondritic to suprachondritic Lu–Hf compositions points to recycling processes of Cadomian sequences, further supported by geochemical data indicating a relatively low to moderate maturity of sedimentary protoliths. The occurrence of Cenerian arc-related intrusions in Austroalpine and South Alpine basement unit points to an arc/back-arc position in the early Paleozoic Cenerian orogen, except for the Strona-Ceneri Zone, which was likely located closer to the forearc region, as indicated by the presence of high-pressure metamorphism. Younger sequences, such as the Landeck Quartz-phyllite, document post-Cenerian sedimentation, whereas those of the Venediger Nappe more likely record the early stages of Variscan subduction, as indicated by Devonian maximum deposition ages.