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The Vallo di Diano and Auletta extensional basins in the southern Apennines (Italy): a simple model for a complex setting
Author(s) -
Amicucci Laura,
Barchi Massimiliano R.,
Montone Paola,
Rubiliani Nicola
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
terra nova
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.353
H-Index - 89
eISSN - 1365-3121
pISSN - 0954-4879
DOI - 10.1111/j.1365-3121.2008.00841.x
Subject(s) - geology , graben , extensional definition , seismology , extensional tectonics , transtension , tectonics , structural basin , echelon formation , fault (geology) , seismic hazard , seismotectonics , paleontology
The aim of this paper was to provide a significant case‐history concerning the evolution of a segmented system of extensional faults and related basins, investigated by a set of seismic reflection profiles. We investigated two kinematically linked semi‐grabens, developed at the hangingwall of two opposite‐dipping normal faults: the Vallo di Diano and Auletta basins, located in the southern Apennines, one of the most seismically active regions of the Italian peninsula. Our interpretation suggests that the Pliocene–Quaternary tectonic history consists of a single extensional phase, where the major NW–SE trending normal faults, generating the basins, and the strike‐slip and transtensional faults connecting adjacent normal fault segments, simultaneously act, being part of the same extensional system. We also conclude that major normal faults, bordering the basins, should be considered as potential seismogenic sources in the seismic hazard evaluation.