Spreading ridge-trench interaction on the continental marginaround Anvers Island, Antarctic Peninsula

Abstract

Using seismic data obtained on the Antarctic Peninsula continental margin around Anvers Island, we examined effect of spreading ridge-trench collision to tectonic evolution in the margin. The mid-shelf basement high (MSBH) formed by thermal effect of the subducted ridge had played a role in controlling continental shelf and slope morphology and sedimentation. From southwest to northeast in the study area, the width of MSBH generally increases, whereas the width of shelf sedimentary basin and the dip of continental slope decreases. Near the C Fracture Zone, it is interpreted that the high MSBH formed by recent thermal uplift could have blocked seaward advance of glacial sedimentary process.