First Identification of the Ediacaran Yukengou Formation in the Western Kuruktag Block, Northeastern Tarim, and Its Implications for Neoproterozoic Rift Basin Evolution

The Cryogenian–Ediacaran strata in the Kuruktag block, northeastern Tarim Craton, are pivotal for deciphering breakup of Neoproterozoic Rodinia and related peripheral subduction processes. This study reveals previously unidentified Ediacaran western characterized by deltaic plain clastic rocks channel deposits. Zircon geochronological analyses basalts sandstones indicate a maximum depositional age ~596 Ma, thereby attributing these to Yukengou Formation conjunction with prior paleontological findings. prevalence lithic fragments two primary detrital zircon populations within suggest rift basin environment, contrast passive continental margin, receiving material from neighboring Paleoproterozoic basement magmatic activity. As result, posited have been deposited an aulacogen basin. presence numerous grains further implies significant volcanic events preceding concurrent Cryogenian rifting, suggesting that rifting along margin may instigated subduction-induced extension.