Structural control and tectono-sedimentary evolution of the Gulf of Cadiz, SW Iberia since the late Miocene: Implications for contourite depositional system

The Gulf of Cadiz Contourite Depositional System (GCCS) developed due to the interaction Mediterranean Outflow Water (MOW) with middle continental slope SW Iberian margin. GCCS evolved in a complex tectonic setting within foreland Betic Orogeny and near Nubia-Eurasia plate boundary. This study used tectonostratigraphic analysis an extensive 2D multichannel seismic reflection dataset investigate how inherited basin configuration activity controlled sedimentary stacking pattern evolution GCCS. Three regional units (U1-U3) were recognised younger unit U3 corresponds Miocene-Quaternary system where contourite is generated. Seismic also detected dextral strike-slip Gil Eanes Fault Zone (described herein for first time), Fault, Albufeira-Guadalquivir-Doñana Basement High several diapiric structures. Integrated profiles showing these structures thickness earthquake distribution maps suggest four tectono-sedimentary domains. distinct characteristics shown by features different domains, depends at broad-scale on tectonic-control accommodation space (i.e., subsidence or uplift) local-scale presence structural highs fault-related depressions. Both influence bottom-current circulation thus deposits through late Miocene Quaternary. main stages have been evolution: 1) region was western continuation Corridor until final re-opening Strait Gibraltar (8–5.3 Ma). In this stage there predominance turbidites hemipelagic deposits, dependant activity; 2) Mediterranean-Atlantic connection onset Pliocene- Quaternary depositional (5.3–2.0 Short-term changes sedimentation during stage, from turbidite indicate periods increased 3) after transpressive regime area (from 2.0 Ma), became more homogeneous suggesting stable conditions (decrease activity) dominant deposition. work highlights remarkable events controlling seafloor relief turn influenced local oceanic processes that morphology systems.