Geotectonic framework of Japanese convergent margin
A synthesis of recent marine geophysical and geologic investigations around Japan uses data obtained by the Ocean Research Institute of the University of Tokyo, the Hydrographic Office and Geological Survey of Japan, and the Japan National Oil Company. This work reveals the contrasting characteristics of forearc and back-arc morphotectonics around Japanese subduction zones. From the north, the following feature can be summarized. The Kuril Trench off Hokkaido shows a pile of trench deposits as much as 2-sec two-way traveltime in thickness. Despite this thickness, there is little evidence of deformation related to the accretionary processes. The authors propose that subduction of the thick trench fill is occurring at this boundary. The Japan Trench is characterized by massive slumping processes and debris accumulation at the toe of the overriding plate. Dai-ichi Kashima seamount at the trench has been broken in half by normal faulting related to bending of the oceanic lithosphere into the subduction zone. Forearc subsidence is also evident on various profiles. The authors believe that the inner wall of the Japan Trench has been eroded tectonically at least from the Miocene to the Pliocene. Three plates interacting at the trench triple junction (Japan, Sagami, and Ogasawara Trenches) created a complex framework of convergent margin tectonics, including highly oblique convergence, forearc sliver collision, and pull-apart basin. The conspicuous features observed in the Izu-Bonin arc are forearc ophiolite (serpentinite diapir) and back-arc rifting close to the volcanic arc. As a result of intraplate shortening related to the Izu-Bonin arc collision against Honshu, the Shikoku basin oceanic crust was ruptured and uplifted, forming a high called the Zenisu Ridge. The Nankai Trough has been filled by turbidites transported through the Suraga Trough area from the Izu collision zone.
- Research Organization:
- Univ. of Tokyo, Japan
- OSTI ID:
- 5187284
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-8608105-
- Journal Information:
- Am. Assoc. Pet. Geol., Bull.; (United States), Vol. 70:7; Conference: 4. circum-Pacific energy and mineral resource conference, Singapore, China, 17 Aug 1986
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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