Temporal and spatial variations in tectonic subsidence in the Iberian Basin (eastern Spain): inferences from automated forward modelling of high-resolution stratigraphy (Permian–Mesozoic)

Abstract

By subsidence analysis on eighteen surface sections and 6 wells, which cover large pati of the Iberian Basin (E Spain) and which are marked by high-resolution stratigraphy of the Permian, Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous, we quantify the complex Permian and Mesozoic tectonic subsidence history of the basin. Backstripping analysis of the available high resolution and high surface density of the database allows to quantify spatial and temporal patterns of tectonically driven subsidence to a much higher degree than previous studies, The sections and wells have also been forward modelled with a new 'automated' modelling technique, with unlimited number of stretching phases, in order to quantify variations in timing and magnitude of rifting. It is demonstrated that the tectonic subsidence history in the Iberian Basin is characterized by pulsating periods of stretching intermitted by periods of relative tectonic quiescence and thermal subsidence. The number of stretching phases appears to be much larger than found by earlier studies, showing a close match with stretching phases found in other patis of the Iberian Peninsula and allowing a clear correlation with discrete phases in the opening of the Tethys and Atlantic.

Sudden changes in fluvial style across the Permian−Triassic boundary in the eastern Iberian Ranges, Spain: Analysis of possible causes

“…The long and complex evolution of this basin has been investigated by Salas and Casas (1993), Doblas et al (1993), Arche and L6pez-G6mez (1996) and Van Wees et al (1998), among others.…”

“…The structural origins and evolution of the Iberian Basin along with subsidence changes and its quanti tative study during the Pennian-Triassic synrift-post rift stages have been reviewed by Alvaro (1987), Sanchez-Moya et al (1992), Salas and Casas (1993), Roca et al (1994), Arche and L6pez-G6mez (1996) and Van Wees et al (1998).…”

Palaeoenvironmental significance of Late Permian palaeosols in the South‐Eastern Iberian Ranges, Spain

“…Tectonism was a key factor controlling the sedi mentation rate. Studies of the tectonic history during the Late Permian (Sopefia et al, 1988;Arche & L6pez-G6mez, 1996Arche & L6pez-G6mez, , 1999L6pez-G6mez & Arche, 1997;Van Wees et al, 1998;Vargas, 2002) demonstrate that the Alcotas Formation sedimentation represented a time of relatively constant subsidence and moderate sedimentation rate (about 1 cm per 10 years).…”

Timing of sea level, tectonics and climate events during the uppermost Oxfordian (Planula zone) on the Iberian ramp (northeast Spain)

“…During the Late Jurassic and the Early Cretaceous, the evolution of the Iberian rift system is linked to northward propagation of rifting from the central Atlantic and the gradual opening of the North Atlantic oceanic basin (Martin-Chivelet et al, 2002). The Iberian basin, located in the central eastern part of the plate is one of these rift systems (Alvaro et al, 1978;Salas and Casas, 1993;Van Wees et al, 1998). The intracontinental rifting started in this basin during the latest Oxfordian.…”