Structure of the south-central Taiwan fold-and-thrust belt: Testing the viability of the model

A structural model is developed for the south-central Taiwan fold-and-thrust belt that shows consistency across an array of data types and marks important step forward in consideration geological hazards risks. Although there general agreement about regional scale geology Taiwan, are considerable differences interpretations its western belt. In this paper, we bring together results our previous studies add new analyses to develop a consistent 3D can explain key aspects seismicity, GPS, topography data. We interpret be west-verging, imbricate thrust system above single basal breached by ENE-striking faults inherited from continental margin. These breaching associated with transverse zones marked changes stratigraphy, style, strike dip thrust, uplift stratigraphic contacts. Along eastern flank belt, metamorphic basement rocks involved thrusting. Shortening estimates range 15 km >25 km. Much seismicity taking place beneath basement, along flanks highs lows where strike-slip transpressive fault common. There systematic GPS displacement vectors strain rates zones. Topography higher areas The proposed has depth along-strike consistency, distribution types, rates, study area, therefore considered viable model.