Western Dharwar Craton Research Articles

Mafic-ultramafic suite from the Karwar Block, SW India: Implications for Mesoarchean geodynamics

Archean mafic–ultramafic rocks provide important clues on the tectonic and crust building processes in the early Earth. The Western Dharwar Craton (WDC) and the Karwar Block (KB) in southern Peninsular India preserve some of the oldest records of craton building processes in the Archean Earth. The tectonic affinity of the Karwar Block that lies at the western periphery of the WDC remains uncertain. Here we present the results from an integrated study of a mafic–ultramafic rock suite from this block using petrology, whole-rock geochemistry, and zircon U–Pb and Lu-Hf data. These rocks occur as deformed and dismembered units within basement granitic gneiss. The primary igneous minerals such as pyroxene and plagioclase show variable degrees of alteration. The rocks show negative Nb anomalies and prominent Pb enrichment. The uniform enrichment of Th and U over Nb-Ta indicates the influence of metasomatic fluids in the mantle wedge. The geochemical data indicate that these rocks were derived from basaltic magmas generated within a subduction metasomatised mantle wedge in an intra-oceanic arc setting without any significant crustal contamination. U-Pb isotope analysis of zircon grains from the metapyroxenite shows upper intercept ages of 3172 to 3213 Ma and weighted mean ages of 3170 to 3203 Ma. A metagabbro sample yielded upper intercept age of 2792 Ma and the 207Pb/206Pb spot ages in another sample range up to 3202 Ma. Zircon U-Pb data suggest that the mafic–ultramafic suite formed at ca. 3.2 Ga and were overprinted by 2.7 Ga thermal event. The εHf(t) values are all positive and range between 0.73 and 6.02, suggesting that the magma was derived dominantly from Mesoarchean juvenile (depleted mantle) sources. We propose a tectonic model that involves a subduction-accretion stage followed by suturing of the ancient continental nuclei.

Eoarchean to Neoarchean crustal evolution of the Western Dharwar Craton, southern India: Clues from U-Pb-Hf isotope composition of detrital zircon

In this study, we use the U-Pb-Hf isotope composition of detrital zircon in metasedimentary rocks from the Western Dharwar Craton to identify older crusts, their nature, source, timing of extraction, and reworking. The samples come from the Holenarsipur region in the central and Sargur region in the southern part of the craton and belong to both the Sargur and the Bababudan Groups. Both detrital and metamorphic domains were identified in the zircon. The metamorphic overgrowths correspond to two age populations at 2536–2516 Ma, and 2478–2460 Ma. Rutile grains provide either concordant 2453 Ma, or discordant younger ages suggestive of thorough re-equilibration during metamorphism. Detrital zircon grains define notable clusters at 3685–3638 Ma, 3573–3524 Ma, 3471–3411 Ma, 3373–3341 Ma, 3277–3249 Ma, 3172–3148 Ma, 3084–2996 Ma, and 2659–2647 Ma which correspond to major episodes of granitoid crust formation in the craton. Based on detrital and metamorphic zircon populations, deposition of both the older Sargur Group and the basal unit of the younger Bababudan Group in the Holenarsipur region were broadly contemporaneous after c. 3160 Ma, while the sediments of the purported Sargur Group in the Sargur region were deposited after c. 2650 Ma. The new age data requires revision of the stratigraphic positions of the Sargur-type and Dharwar-type greenstone belt successions. The detrital zircon suites have both radiogenic and crust-like Hf isotopic compositions. However, the majority have radiogenic compositions that were acquired during major events of juvenile crust extraction between c. 3850 Ma and 3250 Ma. Strongly unradiogenic ɛHf(t) of some Paleoarchean detrital zircon require protoliths extracted from the mantle in the Hadean, but which persisted for a long period and contributed to granitoid formation in the Paleoarchean and the Mesoarchean. Mixing of juvenile magmas with preexisting crustal components also played a significant role in the petrogenesis of the granitoids. A distinct shift in the ɛHf(t) of the detrital zircon from chondritic to positive value at c. 3600 Ma is noted, reflecting a marked increase in the contribution of strongly depleted mantle reservoir to the source of the post-c. 3600 Ma granitoids.

First Report of Carbonatite from Gundlupet Area, Western Dharwar Craton, Karnataka, Southern India

Abstract A new carbonatite body has been discovered from Gundlupet area, western Dharwar craton, southern India which is located at juncture of major shear zones namely, Kollegal shear zone to the east, Sargur shear zone to the west and Moyar shear zone to the south. The carbonatite and associated syenite have intruded into the peninsular gneissic complex. The southern margin of the syenite has a tectonic contact with the peninsular gneissic complex suggesting their emplacement is related to the splay shear of Moyar shear zone. The Gundlupet carbonatite is dominantly sövite with minor beforsite and iron rich carbonatite which are associated with phenocrystic magnetite, apatite, amphibole, pyroxene and monazite. Fenitisation is observed in local scale along the contact of carbonatite and syenite where metasomatic alterations took place to give rise to alkali amphibole and pyroxene rich rock. Geochemically, the carbonatite is characterised by high CaO content (48.86% - 51.80%), P2O5 (0.35% - 3.23%) and low SiO2 (3.09% - 5.30%). The high Sr (5750 - 13445 ppm) content and low Ni, Cr, Zn and Cu content indicates that the melt has undergone some degree of fractionation before crystallization. Gundlupet carbonatite is enriched in LREE with values ranging from 5666 ppm to 7530 ppm and average LREE of 6248 ppm.

Chrome-diopside Xenocrysts Entrained in a Neoproterozoic Lamprophyre Dyke from the Mysuru Area: Their Origin and Implications for Lithospheric Thickness Beneath the Western Dharwar Craton, Southern India

Abstract In comparison to the eastern Dharwar Craton, the mantle-derived xenocrysts/xenoliths are extremely rare or even unreported from the western Dharwar Craton, southern India. A Neoproterozoic (ca. 800-900 Ma) lamprophyre cropping out in the Mysuru area of southern India contains chrome-diopside xenocrysts (Cr2O3 content varying from 0.2 – 1.23 wt%) which provide important evidence about the pressure-temperature conditions and lithospheric thickness beneath the western Dharwar Craton. Studied chrome-diopsides show compositional zoning which is lacking in the liquidus phases (amphiboles and feldspars) of the lamprophyre which additionally favors a non-cognate origin of the former. Based on the compositional zoning, all the chrome-diopside xenocrysts can be divided into three groups: (i) Group I- which are euhedral and show reverse zoning with increasing Cr-content from core to rim; (ii) Group II- which are characterized by fractures and resorption textures, show complex reverse zoning and display up to three distinct compositional layers, and (iii) Group III- which evidence the reaction of chrome-diopsides with lamprophyric melt and are marked by alteration phases, such as actinolite and chlorite, together with relicts of some unaltered xenocrysts. High Cr2O3, moderate MgO and low Al2O3 content of all the three varieties of chrome-diopside suggest them to represent disaggregated xenocrysts of mantle-derived garnet peridotite. Temperature-pressure estimates for chrome-diopside xenocrysts ranges from 895 - 1026 °C (± 30 °C) and 32 – 38 kbar respectively and correspond to depth range of 106 – 127 km. The study reveals that lithospheric thickness during the Neoproterozoic beneath the western Dharwar craton was at least ~115 km and is similar in composition to that of the cratonic lithosphere found in the other cratonic domains.

Major and trace element geochemistry of olivine from an ENE-trending picrite dyke, genetically linked to the ca. 1.89–1.88 Ga Hampi swarm, western Dharwar craton: Implications for plume induced melting of a mixed peridotite-pyroxenite source

The presence of recycled crust in the lithospheric mantle of the Dharwar craton has been investigated using trace element geochemistry of olivine grains from an ENE-trending Paleoproterozoic picrite dyke (associated with the ca. 1.89–1.88 Ga Hampi dyke swarm) emplaced in the western Dharwar craton. Olivine grains are purely magmatic, formed as early phenocrysts in a fractionated basaltic melt. They exhibit enrichment in NiO contents (0.32–0.43 wt%) and depletion in Ca (1366–2105 ppm), Mn (1578–2663 ppm) and 100 ∗ Mn/Fe (1.28–1.48). Further, the compiled whole-rock geochemical data of the picrite dyke and associated dyke swarm illustrates relatively low CaO/MgO (0.55–1.78), intermediate FeO/MnO (47–54), negative to positive PX# (−0.34 to +1.86), and high values of FC3MS (0.24–0.90) and FCKANTMS (0.19–1.11). These chemical markers are not consistent with the derivation of the primary melt from a pure peridotite or a pyroxenite source; therefore, contribution from a mixed type of source having both peridotite and pyroxenite end members (pyroxene rich and olivine poor lithology) is suggested. The amount of pyroxenite and recycled crust varies from 46% to 86% and 14% to 44%, respectively. The Al-in-olivine based thermometer estimates the maximum crystallization temperature as 1407 °C, which is 137 °C higher than the average temperature of MORB and accordant with several well-established plume-induced large igneous provinces (LIPs) worldwide. Therefore, it is suggested that the studied picrite dyke is derived from a primary melt generated by plume-induced melting of a peridotite-pyroxenite mixed source. The ca. 1.89–1.88 Ga Hampi dyke swarm, being genetically linked with the studied dyke, could also be derived from this same source. Further, the recycled crust in the subcontinental lithospheric mantle of the western Dharwar craton may have generated the pyroxene rich mafic source during the Neoarchean convergence between eastern and western Dharwar craton.

Paleo-Mesoarchean crustal growth and reworking in the western Dharwar Craton, southwestern India: Evidence from trondhjemitic gneiss and granitic gneiss

Paleo-Mesoarchean felsic orthogneisses are widely exposed in the southern part of the western Dharwar Craton (WDC), southern India shield. The felsic orthogneisses studied in this paper from the WDC can be divided into two groups based on their geological, geochronological, and geochemical data: the 3.4–3.3 Ga trondhjemitic gneiss (including trondhjemitic veins) and the ∼3.1–3.0 Ga granitic gneiss. The 3.4–3.3 Ga trondhjemitic gneiss is characterized by high contents of SiO2 (70.4–73.1 wt%), Na2O (5.49–5.91 wt%) and Sr (647–740 ppm), high ratios of Na2O/K2O (4.7–7.7) and Sr/Y (53–106), but relatively lower Mg# values (32–39), and Cr (9.5–28.7 ppm) and Ni (1.34–5.33 ppm) concentrations, as well as insignificant Eu anomalies, fractionated REE patterns and mostly positive zircon εHf(t) values (+0.8-+5.9). These data indicate that the trondhjemitic gneiss was derived from partial melting of juvenile mafic crust in a relatively moderate-shallow depth, with residual mineral assemblage of garnet, amphibole and clinopyroxene, implying crustal growth event at 3.4–3.3 Ga. By contrast, the ∼3.1–3.0 Ga granitic gneiss is characterized by relatively lower contents of Na2O (3.82–4.63 wt%) and Sr (96.9–291 ppm), low ratios of Na2O/K2O (1.4–1.7) and Sr/Y (3.02–8.65), as well as significantly negative Eu anomalies and negative to positive zircon εHf(t) values (-5.6-+4.5). Therefore, the granitic gneiss was probably derived from partial melting of pre-existing crustal rocks, suggesting a prominent crustal reworking event at ∼3.1–3.0 Ga. This study emphasizes that the western Dharwar Craton is dominated by Paleoarchean (3.4–3.2 Ga) crustal growth event and a strong crustal reworking event in early Mesoarchean (∼3.1–3.0 Ga), though the Mesoarchean crustal growth event is discernible, evidenced by regional ∼3.0 Ga TTG rocks. The early Mesoarchean (∼3.1–3.0 Ga) crustal reworking event, represented by series of potassium-rich granites, is also reported in other Archean cratons, and thus it may have global significances.

Zircon-monazite geochronology and P-T evolution of the Sargur Greenstone Belt: Implications for the end-Archean tectonics of the Dharwar Craton in southern India

We report petrological and geochronological data for metamafic volcanics and metasediments from the Sargur Greenstone Belt, Western Dharwar Craton (WDC), southern India and discuss the end-Archean metamorphic P–T conditions of the Sargur Greenstone Belt, as well as geotectonic implications of the end-Archean metamorphism in the WDC. The LA-ICP MS zircon U-Pb dating yields a metamorphic age of 2500 ± 20 Ma for the garnet-bearing amphibolite. The garnet-staurolite-kyanite mica schist sample has metamorphic zircon and monazite U-Pb ages of 2443 ± 7 Ma and 2468 ± 10 Ma, respectively, consistent with metamorphic zircon U-Pb ages of 2459 ± 17 Ma and 2455 ± 18 Ma yield by the amphibole-garnet schist samples. The peak mineral assemblage of the garnet-bearing amphibolite is garnet + clinopyroxene + amphibole + plagioclase + quartz + rutile + ilmenite, and that of the metapelitic schist is garnet + staurolite + kyanite + biotite + muscovite + quartz + plagioclase. Phase equilibrium modelling, together with geothermobarometers yield P–T conditions of 7.9–8.9 kbar/681–769 °C and 7.5–9.3 kbar/683–694 °C for the garnet-bearing amphibolite and garnet-staurolite-kyanite mica schist, respectively, corresponding to a medium geothermal gradient of 20–25 °C/km. These data indicate that the Sargur Greenstone Belt has experienced a typical Barrovian-type (amphibolite-facies) metamorphism at ca. 2.50–2.44 Ga. Combined with the previous studies, it is suggested that the Sargur Greenstone Belt was most likely to be formed during 3.35–3.12 Ga and was reworked through four episodes of magmatic-metamorphic events occurred at ca. 3.1 Ga, ca. 3.0 Ga, ca. 2.8–2.6 Ga and ca. 2.5–2.4 Ga. The prominent ca. 2.5–2.4 Ga regional metamorphism is the last stage of the Neoarchean tectono-thermal event in the WDC and thus most possibly indicate accretion-collision of different Archean blocks at ca. 2.5–2.4 Ga and lead to the final cratonization (stabilization) of the whole Dharwar Craton.

Magnetotelluric 3-D full tensor inversion in the Dharwar craton, India: Mapping of subduction polarity and kimberlitic melt

Complex geological structures and processes that took place in the Dharwar craton formation make it difficult to understand the evolution history. 3-D magnetotelluric inversion is a challenging task for the imaging of sub-surface structures. Data at 40 stations in a gridded fashion are used in this study for inversion. A controversy exists regarding the subduction polarity between the eastern and western Dharwar craton. Based on the conductivity anomalies mapped in the sub-surface, the lithosphere can be divided into the shallower and deeper lithosphere. The study delineated several crustal and lithospheric upper mantle conductors. In the crustal region, several conductive features (~10 Ω-m) are imaged in the western part, central, and eastern part of the profile. A new finding of this 3-D study is a conductor in the eastern Dharwar craton in the depth range of 65–140 km. The base of this conductor shows the graphite diamond stability field and is correlated with the kimberlites/lamproites present in the region. An uppermost mantle conductor is present at the depth range of 80–200 km in the central part of the study area. Sulphides and carbon-rich fluids could be one cause of the conductors mapped in the crust. The low electrical resistivity imaged in the deeper lithosphere could be due to the refertilization of the mantle scar in the Cretaceous age by the passage of several hotspots. The lithospheric thickness estimated beneath the Dharwar craton in this study is more than 200 km. This study reveals geophysical evidence for the eastward subduction polarity in the Dharwar craton.

Neoarchaean Felsic Volcanic Rocks in Tracing Evolution of Arcs: An Insight from Geochemical Data of the Gadag Schist Belt, Western Dharwar Craton

Abstract Quartz porphyry of rhyolitic composition though a volumetrically minor is an important component of metavolcanic successions in the Gadag schist belt in the western Dharwar craton. The quartz porphyries are calc-alkaline, enriched in light rare earth elements (Lan/Ybn ~ 10-20) and with a strong negative Eu anomaly (Eu/Eu*N = 0.45-0.58). These features, coupled with high K2O/Na2O (0.8 to 1.46), low Nb/Th (<1), and Lan/Smn ratios of 4.2 to 6.0, suggest that rhyolitic magma formed from melt generated by partial melting of basaltic crust, subsequently modified by crustal assimilation and crystal fractionation. The geological setting of the quartz porphyries and the geochemical relationships suggest magmatism at a convergent plate tectonic setting. The zircon U-Pb age of 2588.0 ± 2.4 Ma for the quartz porphyry, together with an age of 2732 Ma for similar volcanic rocks in the Chitradurga schist belt further south, and 2614 Ma for felsic volcanics from the Shimoga schist belt, point to an extended period with episodic arc magmatism in the western Dharwar craton of at least ~144myr.

~2.5 Ga asthenospheric-melt impregnated continental crust: Implications for sporadically eroded lithosphere beneath the Dharwar craton, India

In an intraplate continental setting, asthenospheric melts emplaced at the surface usually exhibit lithospheric interaction and crustal contamination signatures. In such a scenario, the occurrence of crustally uncontaminated juvenile magmatic rocks isan intriguing phenomenon on the Earth. In this contribution, we present geochemical and isotopic evidence of such a rare paleotectonic intracratonic event from the western Dharwar craton, India. The focus of this study is a ~2.5 Ga comagmatic suite of High-Mg tholeiitic dikes emplaced near the eastern margin of the Mesoarchean Nuggihalli greenstone belt. The dikes are characterized by high Nb/Th ~11 and low Th/Ce ~0.03 ratios, and radiogenic initial Nd-isotopic compositions εNd(t=2.5 Ga) = +3.02 to +3.16, in contrast to the contemporaneous continental crust in the study area. Unlike in the continental crust, primitive mantle normalized negative Nb and Ti anomalies are absent in these dikes. Therefore, preclude crustal contamination. The La/Nb < 1 and Ba/Nb < 25 ratios in these dikes do not indicate any significant contribution from the sub continental lithospheric mantle (SCLM) as well. The well-preserved mineralogy and primary igneous textures in these dikes essentially imply that (1) regional deformation and metamorphic events in the Dharwar craton predate 2.5 Ga and (2) The isotopic compositions and the trace element attributes of these dikes evidently suggest that lithosphere beneath the Dharwar craton was either very frail and incapacitated to participate in the process, or perforated to channelize faults and fractures to act as potential conduits for magma transport. Consequently, it implicates sporadically eroded lithosphere beneath the Dharwar craton already by ~2.5 Ga

Lithospheric architecture and geodynamics of the Archean Dharwar craton and surrounding terranes: New insights from satellite gravity investigation

The construction and destruction of continents, cratons and supercontinents on the globe involved multiple events of plume, rifting, subduction-accretion, and collision through the long history of evolution of our planet. Archean cratons preserve the records of continent building in the Early Earth and understanding their lithospheric architecture is fundamental to building geodynamic models. The Dharwar craton in southern India is among the major cratons on the globe. Recent geological and geochronological studies indicate that the craton formed through the assembly of a number of micro-blocks, although the terrane boundaries and lithospheric structure have not been well-defined. Here, we analyze satellite gravity data, covering the entire Dharwar craton and its surrounding regions, with a view to understand the regional lithospheric architecture and the geodynamic evolution. Our results on the residual gravity field, based on finite element approach, can clearly demarcate the boundaries of the major geotectonic units in the Dharwar craton and surrounding regions. We identify the presence of a conspicuous residual gravity low (−55 mGal) that runs north–south for about 700 km, paralleling the western margin of the Dharwar craton. This gravity low passes through the Chitradurga schist belt and covers the Koyna seismogenic region in the north to Coimbatore in the south. The gravity patterns observed over this region, might suggest a deep-seated paleo- rift zone, which we term as ‘Koyna-Coimbatore rift’. The prominent gravity low associated with this rift structure, can be explained by the presence of a 70 km thick low velocity/low density zone (LVZ) in subcrustal lithospheric mantle, suggesting asthenospheric flow into the upper mantle. The Western Dharwar Craton (WDC) might extend further north encompassing the Koyna-Warna seismic zone. Another major finding from this study is delineation of the Central Dharwar Cratonic (CDC) block between the Chitradurga shear zone and the Kolar greenstone belt, which is characterized by a prominent residual gravity high zone (+20 mGal), coinciding with the exposures of the Closepet granitoids and their equivalents, possibly marking a collisional suture between two microblocks. The 2½D residual gravity modeling across an E-W profile, which cuts all the major geotectonic features of WDC, CDC and Eastern Dharwar Craton (EDC), reveals popping-up of the CDC terrane, below which Moho has upwarped to a depth of 36 km and the lithosphere is considerably thinner at about 120 km, compared to 48 km and 175 km respectively in the WDC. This feature corresponds to lithospheric destruction of almost 100–120 km below the Dharwar craton, with magma underplating. On the eastern side of the craton, the positive residual gravity contours that correspond to the Eastern Ghats Belt rocks, take a sharp turn into the adjacent offshore region northeast of Ongole, and continue further south, until the granulite terrane north of Chennai, indicating the absence of the Eastern Ghats Belt rocks east of Cuddapah Basin. Our gravity model is able to demarcate three collisional boundaries between (i) WDC and CDC, (ii) CDC and Cuddapah Basin, and (iii) Nellore Schist Belt and adjoining east coast terrane. The extensive lithospheric destruction with removal of nearly 100 km of the cratonic root is correlated to prolonged subduction during Paleo-Neoproterozoic, together with mantle plumes at different times playing a subordinate role, thus indicating combined mechanical, thermal and chemical erosion.

Trace element and isotope Geochemistry of Neoarchean carbonate rocks from the Dharwar craton, southern India: Implications for depositional environments and mantle influence on ocean chemistry

Neoarchean carbonate rocks of the Vanivilas Formation (2.7 Ga) occur extensively in greenstone belts of western Dharwar craton, are associated with banded Fe-Mn formations and clastic sediments including diamictites, preserve well-developed stromatolitic structures. We intend to understand the depositional environments of these carbonates, extent of oxygenation in shallow oceans and to examine the mantle and continent inputs to Neoarchean oceans. Depleted LREESN and slightly enriched HREESN patterns, Y/Ho > 28, La, Y and Eu spiking and varying Ce anomalies shown by most of the samples, are consistent with their marine origin. However, 4 samples exhibit negative Ce anomaly indicating presence of oxygen supporting the hypotheses of localised, protected, shallow marine oxygenation in redox stratified late Meso- to Neoarchean oceans. δ13C values are well preserved (mean = -0.27‰ (PDB)) similar to other Archean marine carbonates from other cratons and show no correlation with δ18O and Mn/Sr ratios. Whereas, the δ18O values (mean= -10.78‰) show considerable depletion and can be attributed to later interactions with diagenetic/meteoric fluids. The mantle dominated, yet continental affected Neoarchean ocean chemistry is apparent from Sr-Nd isotope systematics. The lowest 87Sr/86Sri of carbonates, 0.7024 reflects ocean water Sr isotopic composition at 2.7 Ga, is higher than the model seawater evolution curve of Shields and Veizer, (2002). Similarly, other recent studies on Archean carbonates and barites reported higher 87Sr/86Sri values. This is due to the existence of Paleoarchean continental crust subjected to chemical weathering resulting in increased continental flux than previously thought of. Range of ℇNd values (-8.39 to 5.83) suggest that the carbonates had variable contributions of Nd from a long term depleted mantle through hydrothermal fluids, as well as, from 3.5 Ga old continental crust in the Dharwar craton. The carbonates were deposited in the Neoarchean ocean at variable depths within the shelf and those deposited at shallower and deeper environments are characterized respectively, by inputs derived from chemical weathering of ≥3.5 Ga old continental crust and mantle through hydrothermal fluids associated with submarine volcanic activity.

Geochemistry of 2.21 Ga giant radiating dyke swarm from the Western Dharwar Craton, India: Implications for petrogenesis and tectonic evolution

The Western Dharwar Craton (WDC) exhibits numerous exposures of NNW–SSE to NW–SE trending mafic dykes. Geochemistry of four 2.21 Ga NNW–NW trending dykes and 21 other similar trending dykes provides new insights into the geochemical behaviour, mantle source characteristics, and tectonic history of mafic magmatic event, which have also affected the Eastern Dharwar Craton (EDC). Based on modal mineralogy and texture, these dykes can be classified into dolerite, olivine dolerite, gabbro, and olivine gabbro. They show basaltic to basaltic‐andesitic composition and have sub‐alkaline tholeiitic nature. LaN/LuN ratio classifies the dykes into two groups: Group I, with values close to 2, shows relatively flat REE patterns while, Group II, with values 4–6, has inclined REE patterns. In general, both groups show LREE enrichment and most of the samples exhibit negative Nb–Ta and Ti anomalies, indicating crustal contamination. However, negative Zr–Hf anomaly and low Th/Nb values (0.14–0.73) noticed within the samples preclude significant crustal inputs. Petrogenetic modelling using batch melting equation suggests that the dykes fractionated from two distinct mantle melts and had slightly different sources, both within the spinel–garnet transition zone. The overall composition of these 2.21 Ga dykes is consistent with a mantle plume‐induced heterogeneous source that was previously modified by some ancient subduction event. Coeval dykes from EDC exhibit similar geochemical behaviour, mantle source characteristics, and tectonic history. These and other synchronous dykes from distant cratons, viz. Superior, Slave, Greenland, represent a 2.21 Ga large igneous province event, which is linked with the Sclavia/Superia supercraton.

Sr-Nd isotopic study of dolerite dykes in the Western Dharwar craton, southern India: Implications for the evolution of the subcontinental lithospheric mantle in late Archean

Mafic dyke swarms are one of the major geologic features that represent crustal extension and rifting episodes which result in the transfer of large volumes of mantle materials to the crust. The rapid emplacement of dykes within a short span of time helps to preserve the composition of subcontinental lithospheric mantle (SCLM) and understand its evolution over time. Here we report major and trace element geochemistry and Sr-Nd isotopic characteristics of dykes from the Tiptur area in the late Archean Western Dharwar craton of southern India. The studied mafic dykes are un-metamorphosed and preserve pristine igneous textures and mineralogy. Three different groups of dykes were identified and categorized as olivine dolerites, dolerites and REE enriched dolerites, based on the distinct petrographical and geochemical characteristics. Olivine dolerites are having a high Mg# suggesting a lower degree of fractionation and is indicative of a less evolved magma. Dolerites have comparatively lower Mg# than the olivine dolerites indicating that the former have undergone significant fractional crystallization as confirmed by the higher Ni contents. The low initial Sr isotopic ratio for olivine dolerites (87Sr/86Sr = 0.70088) with negative epsilon Nd values are suggesting a late Archean enriched subcontinental lithospheric mantle (SCLM) in the source region. The dolerites (87Sr/86Sr = 0.70132 to 0.70327) and REE enriched dolerites (87Sr/86Sr = 0.70405 to 0.70653) show signatures of a more enriched source. The evolution of SCLM from a DMM source enriched by the subduction of the mafic oceanic crust in the late Archean to a mantle enriched by continent-derived sediments towards the early Proterozoic are reflected in the dolerite and REE enriched dykes.

Structural and geochemical evidence for a failed rift crustal evolution model in Western Dharwar Craton, South India

Detailed geological mapping along with structural and geochemical analysis were carried out in the Kibbanahalli Schist Belt (KSB) of the Bababudan Group in the Western Dharwar Craton (WDC). Repeated sequences of sedimentary rocks and volcanic rocks with conformable contact relations are the major lithological association in KSB. Sedimentary structures and field relations indicate that the Bababudan Group begins with basal conglomerate composed of debris (talus) and alluvial fan deposits or fluvial deposits. Volcanic rocks preserve features of explosive volcanism in an aqueous environment.Based on the field and microstructural observations five stages of deformations (D0, D1, D2, D3, and D4) are characterized from the study area. Among these deformation events, D2 is the major regional-scale event. East dipping NW–SE trending thrust faults and F2 parallel folds that are upright and isoclinal mark the D2 event. These F2 folds are sandwiched between D2 thrust faults. D2 structures suggest the temporal evolution of a fold-and-thrust belt by inversion of an intracratonic basin.Trace element geochemical analysis of the mafic to intermediate rocks from KSB and Chitradurga Schist Belt (CSB) shows three types of patterns. Type 1 has Nb–Ta negative anomalies, Type 2 is relatively flat trend and Type 3 has Zr–Hf positive anomalies. Type 1 has slightly enriched LREE trend while relatively flat LREE trend in Type 2 and 3. HREE trend is relatively flat in all samples, except for one sample from Type 3. The geochemical variations are related to the degree of crustal contamination experienced during their eruption in connection with the intracratonic extension.A pair of thrust faults and folded sequences of volcanic, volcanoclastic and sedimentary rocks summarize the major structural association in the study area. This association is identical to an inverted failed rift structure. Geochemical evidence also points to an intracratonic mafic to intermediate volcanism. Our study thus provides a well-preserved example of Archean failed rift. We thus propose the post-3.0 Ga crustal growth throughout the Western Dharwar Craton is therefore initiated by similar failed rifting events.

Geochemical and isotopic studies of potassic granite from the western Dharwar Craton, southern India: Implications for crustal reworking in the Neoarchean

The Neoarchean potassic granite from the Hosadurga region adjacent to the Chitradurga greenstone belt (CGB), part of the western Dharwar Craton (WDC), is studied for its petrogenesis. The combined field, petrographic, whole‐rock elemental, and Nd–Sr isotope data of granite and associated Tonalite–Trondhjemite–Granodiorite (TTG) gneiss from this region are presented here. The granites are alkali‐calcic to calc‐alkalic in terms of modified alkali lime index (MALI) and are weakly peraluminous (molar Al2O3/(CaO + Na2O + K2O) = 1.0–1.1). The geochemical data indicate that these are formed by the melting of TTG gneiss at depths above the garnet stability field. Isotopic data (εNd = −2.9 to −7.6 at T = 2,600 Ma, ISr = 0.715–0.729, TDM &gt; 3.0 Ga) also show the involvement of Archean crustal sources. Trace element modelling was carried out using non‐modal equilibrium melting equation, which constraints partial melting of TTG source to a low degree (11%) for the formation of this granite. This model could also produce a major element composition consistent with this granite. The upper bounds on the magmatic temperatures (724–785°C) assessed from zircon saturation thermometry suggest that fluid influx is required. TTG samples show variable and very high positive epsilon Nd values (1.5–8.9), higher than the contemporaneous mantle, suggesting re‐melting of mafic crust. The observed high Nd isotope ratios in TTG indicate involvement of a mafic source that formed as early as ~3.8 Ga, probably as a result of global differentiation of the early Earth.

Trace and rare earth element geochemistry of clinopyroxene in mafic dykes from Western Dharwar craton, southern India

The major and trace element characteristics of the clinopyroxene from two generations of dykes, dolerite and olivine dolerite dykes of Western Dharwar Craton were investigated by using electron microprobe and LA� ICPMS. The clinopyroxene in dolerite dykes show a compositional zoning with Mg# decreasing from the core to the rim (85 to 51) and Cr2O3contents decrease towards the rim. The trace and rare earth element (REE) pattern of the core shows lower concentrations of REEs compared to the rim. The clinopyroxene in the olivine dolerites are devoid of zoning and compositionally more primitive than the dolerites as visible in the trace element and REE concentrations. The dolerite and olivine dolerite are formed from different source magmas and the fractional crystallization of clinopyroxene is dominant in dolerites. The present estimated melt composition in equilibrium with clinopyroxene is consistent with the bulk rock composition for dolerite and olivine dolerite. © 2021. All Rights Reserved.

Mapping hydrothermal alteration zone through aster data in Gadag Schist Belt of Western Dharwar Craton of Karnataka, India

Alteration zones are developed in a wide range of geological milieus such as volcano-plutonic rocks. Hydrothermal alteration zones are considered an important guide for mineral exploration and can act as a potential zone of mineralization. The minerals in alteration zones have very diagnostic absorption features in visible–near infrared (VNIR) and shortwave infrared (SWIR) regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. The Advanced Space-borne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) data have the potential to identify mineral assemblages in different hydrothermal alteration zones because of its 14 spectral bands which cover a wide spectral range. In the present article, FCC, band ratio, and SPCA techniques were applied to map the hydrothermal alteration zones in Gadag Schist Belt (GSB) of Western Dharwar Craton (WDC) of Karnataka. FCC has highlighted lithology, alteration zones, and given a fair idea about the lithological control and alteration occurrences in the area. Band ratio technique for muscovite, kaolinite, chlorite, iron oxide gossan, and silica alteration have yielded promising results. SPCA analysis successfully mapped hydrothermal alteration and delineated phyllic, argillic, and propylitic zones in the area. These results were verified through the existing geological map and by geological fieldwork in the area and these results are satisfactory. The total area, altered by different alteration process, was also calculated. In the GSB, iron alteration zone, phyllic, argillic, propylitic, and silica alteration zones were effectively mapped with the help of ASTER data.

Alluvial architecture, paleohydrology and provenance tracking from the Neoproterozoic Banganapalle formation, Kurnool Group, India: An example of continental sedimentation before land plants

An integrated study involving facies association analysis, architectural element analysis, paleohydrology and detrital zircon geochronology allowed detail insight of sedimentology and paleogeography of Neoproterozoic Banganapalle Formation (BF), Kurnool Group. Detailed process-based facies and paleoenvironmental analysis have led to the identification of fourteen facies types, grouped under four different facies associations, which record paleoenvironmental settings ranging between mid-alluvial fan to distal fluvial plain. Whereas mass flows, hyperconcentrated flows, streamlets and sheet floods dominate the depositional process on the BF fan (middle to distal) surface, streams of varied geometry viz. braided and ephemeral meandering occupied the proximal and distal BF alluvial plain. Our study supports the emerging view that even without the buffering effect of land plants channels developed sinuous planform in pre-vegetation time subject to low-gradient and discharge of alluvial plain and adequate supply of fine detritus. From occurrence of boulder/gravelly mass flows, boundary/pebbly streamlet thalweg and pebbly/granular sheet flood deposits in the alluvial fan, thick silty-muddy stable flood plain deposits in the distal alluvial plain and unequivocal southward paleocurrent irrespective of facies association, it is inferred that the BF alluvial basin received mixed sediment from long-term beveled source in the north and northwest. From two U-Pb detrital zircon geochronology age clusters viz. Paleo- to Mesoarchean (3410 Ma – 3075 Ma) and Neoarchean to late Paleoproterozoic (2750 Ma – 2500 Ma), provenance for the BF is tracked in the north and northwest of the Kurnool basin i.e. the TTG suite of the Peninsular Gneiss and volcanics-hosted greenstone belts in the central and western Dharwar craton. A mixing of sediments from two different provenances is inferred. A consistent low water discharge with marginal downstream increase is suggested for the BF alluvial system from paleohydraulic analysis, except for some occasional spurts of high discharge in mid fan at times of intense rainfall in the hinterland.

Export of particulate organic carbon by the mountainous tropical rivers of Western Ghats, India: Variations and controls

Transport of organic carbon by small mountainous rivers is essential, but the poorly constrained component of the global carbon cycle. In the current research, we sampled and analyzed particulate organic carbon (POC) contents from 70 sizeable tropical coastal rivers, draining the Western Ghats (WG) of India. This study aimed to investigate the spatiotemporal variability in POC contents, to estimate flux and to identify environmental controls on POC sources and transport characteristics across the region. The averaged value of organic carbon (OC) in the particulate samples is 3.24%, and the mean POC concentration is 2.86 mg l−1. We classified the samples based on total suspended matter (TSM) classes for source appropriation. Litter/riparian (42.5%) pools are the largest source of organic matter, followed by autochthonous (36%) and soil (21.5%) for the WG region. However, locally autochthonous sources contribute exceptionally to POC pools, indicating a favorable environmental condition for the growth of algae and phytoplankton. Land-use & land-cover, climate, topography, and sediment erosion seems to be determining the local variability in sources to POC pools and fluxes. The POC export rates suggest that within the region, the POC yields of the Deccan Trap (DT) and the Western Dharwar Craton (WDC) blocks are about two times higher than that of the Southern Granulite Terrain (SGT) region. With POC yield of 7.0 g m−2 yr−1, this region exports 0.79 Tg C (~ 0.5% of the global POC) to the Arabian Sea annually. The POC flux of the WG region (covering 0.25% of Asia's land area) is approximately 1.0% of Asia's riverine POC flux to the ocean.