The Conjugate Volcanic Continental Margins of the South Atlantic

In November-December 2004 the German Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources (BGR) undertook a marine geophysical cruise along the South Atlantic continental margin off Uruguay and Southern Argentina. In total more than 3,700 km of combined multi-channel reflection seismic (MCS), magnetic and gravity and an additional of 1,300 km with only magnetic and gravity were acquired. In combination with the extensive MCS (>24,000 km) data set from the Argentine and South African margins we are able to interpret conjugate traverses over almost exact conjugate parts of the South Atlantic. Continental break-up and initial sea-floor spreading were accompanied by large-scale magmatism and volcanism as manifested in the seismic data by a huge wedge of seaward dipping reflectors (SDRS). The interpretation of eight refraction/wide-angle seismic traverses show the SDRS are underlain by a distinct and wide spread high-velocity (values 7.1-7.3 km/s) lower crustal body. From the reflection seismic data we tentatively suggest that the (volcanic) features (associated with break-up volcanism?) are mirror images on both margins. The emplacement of the deeply buried, 60-120km wide SDRS was probably episodic as documented by at least three superimposed SDRS units. A similar distinct partitioning of the SDRS into three to four individual wedges is present on the South African margin. From the data a detailed correlation of timing of these individual pulses is intended. Furthermore, it was possible to estimate the amount of extruded material during the phases of emplacement. The seismic data from the Argentine margin document the presence of a narrow, north-east striking half-graben system beneath the upper continental slope. This buried half-graben system developed during the final stage of rifting in the Early Cretaceous, whereas the east-west trending Colorado-Basin probably formed earlier. Further to the south the new data from the Falkland Plateau show widespread small-scale half grabens.