Review of the deformation styles during the Cretaceous Tethyan period: inferred from slumps and fault Kinematics analysis along Northern Tunisia

In northern Tunisia, the Cretaceous period is described as a spectacular episode of soft-sediment deformations exposed for several kilometers. These gravity-driven are interpreted to be associated with Tethyan passive margin rifting. Slump folds and fault kinematics analysed in order characterize structural style Northern Tunisia basin during period. As result, Early sedimentation reflects syn-rift stage mainly underlined by major basement systems combined other intra-basin growth normal faults. faults tilted northward creating paleoslope (estimated here ± 3°) abundant deformations. Major (probably listric) split study area into various tectonic blocs. Meanwhile, post-rift Coniacian–Maastrichtian rich-marly deposits seal all inherited differentiations were presumably driven isostatic response Based on kinematic analysis, compressional events not observed whole occurred under extensional tectonics this Halokinetic movements salt rise-up active structures essentially end allowing creation large depocenters numerous Thus, Tunisian an evaporite floored where significant part Mesozoic sedimentary cover underwent frequent gliding spreading above Triassic evaporitic detachment layers, Atlantic-type margins. During Cenozoic shortening, inversion model accepted development different thrust systems. clear field relationship between entities present-day geographical repartition belts involves role inheritance evolution belt.