A New Model for the Evolution of Oceanic Transform Faults Based on 3D Broadband Seismic Observations From São Tomé and Príncipe in the Eastern Gulf of Guinea

Abstract Oceanic Transform Faults are one of manifestations the three major plate boundaries and a key tectonic feature oceanic crust. They broadly considered to accommodate strike‐slip displacement along simple vertical faults be largely without magmatic addition. We present first observations from broadband 3D seismic buried, Cretaceous‐aged transform in Gulf Guinea with complex internal architectures including crustal scale detachments rotated packages volcanics within In study area, several Fracture Zones (OFZ) described Top Crust Moho. OFZ scarps observed connect at depth zones low angle reflectivity which dip into perpendicular spreading orientation. At they detach onto Moho, necking adjacent crust manner extensional shear zones. Thickly stacked tilted reflectors, interpreted as extrusive lava flows, common above infill up 75% thickness. The entire stratigraphy is overlain sealed by late‐stage lavas that continuous abyssal hills trailing ridge. These insights demonstrate complexity previously only predicted numerical simulations. propose model extension high orientation zone acts conduit for decompression related melt volcanism. conclude transforms non‐conservative not strike slip fault zones, contradicting conventional view.