Tectonic Inversion and Geomorphic Evolution of the Algerian Margin Since Messinian Times: Insights From New Onshore/Offshore Analog Modeling Experiments

Tectonic inversion of passive margins is a common but poorly documented process preceding subduction inception. We perform here comprehensive land-sea experimental modeling this key by reproducing the morphotectonic and sedimentary evolution central Algerian margin over last 6 Myr. Our approach based on scaled analog models integrating interactions between crustal shortening surface processes, including erosion, water transport, sedimentation, gravitational instabilities, base-level changes. A challenge was to simulate effects Messinian Salinity Crisis (MSC) through major sea-level oscillation halite deposition. By using realistic boundary conditions, adapted material, robust, first-order parameters for physiography setups, we successfully reproduce domains time-dependent geometrical relationships fluvio-deltaic systems, erosional surfaces, thrust faults as observed since times. results highlight (1) role played MSC an ultra-fast building, destruction re-sedimentation fans deltas from upper slope abyssal plain; (2) development large popup structure subparallel coastline, with progressive strain migration backthrust land toward frontal opposite vergence at mid-slope toe; (3) importance lateral changes in initial wedge shape distribution determining non-cylindrical geometry progradation piggy-back basins during tectonic inversion. support that witnessing early building accretionary combining thin-skinned thick-skinned styles.