Interference of compressional and wrenching tectonics in the Alicante region, SE-Spain

Abstract

The Alicante region forms part of the External Zone of the Betic Cordilleras. The regional fold trend is ENE, but in the central part of the area studied, an anomalous N-S trend dominates. In previous publications the N-S folds have been interpreted as structures formed by diapiric movements of Triassic evaporites. However, analysis of tectonic stylolites and structural style of the folds show that both trends were formed by crustal shortening. Interference patterns suggest overprinting of the two fold trends. A model is proposed in which the N-S trending folds are interpreted as the result of right-lateral movement along a basement fault. The wrench fault involved would be an offshoot of the important Crevillente fault. The occurrence of both wrenching and compressional tectonics in the Alicante region is discussed in respect with existing plate tectonic models.