Proterozoic–Phanerozoic tectonic evolution of the Qilian Shan and Eastern Kunlun Range, northern Tibet

Abstract The Proterozoic–Phanerozoic tectonic evolution of the Qilian Shan, Qaidam Basin, and Eastern Kunlun Range was key to construction Asian continent, understanding paleogeography these regions is critical reconstructing ancient oceanic domains central Asia. This issue particularly important regarding North China-Tarim continent South China craton, which have experienced significant late Neoproterozoic rifting Phanerozoic deformation. In this study, we integrated new existing geologic field observations geochronology across northern Tibet examine Qilian-Qaidam-Kunlun its relationships with north craton south. Our results show that subduction subsequent collision between Tarim-North China, Qilian-Qaidam-Kunlun, continents occurred in early Neoproterozoic. Late opened Qilian, Paleo-Kunlun oceans. Opening oceans followed trace an suture. opening Ocean (ca. 600 Ma) later than 740–730 Ma). Closure Early Silurian 440 Ma), whereas final consumption Devonian 360 Northward Neo-Kunlun lithosphere initiated at ca. 270 Ma, by slab rollback beginning 225 Ma evidenced Shan 194 Range. supported spatial trends timing magmatism paleo-crustal thickness continent. Lastly, suggest two Greater continents, located along southern margin Laurasia, were separated future Kunlun-Qinling-Dabie