The preserved plume of the Caribbean Large Igneous Plateau revealed by 3D data-integrative models

Abstract. Remnants of the Caribbean Large Igneous Plateau (C-LIP) are found as thicker than normal oceanic crust in Sea that formed during rapid pulses magmatic activity at ?91–88 and ?76 Ma. Strong geochemical evidence supports hypothesis C-LIP due to melting plume head Galápagos hotspot, which interacted with Farallon (Proto-Caribbean) plate eastern Pacific. Considering tectonics theory, it is expected lithospheric portion plume-related material migrated within Proto-Caribbean a north–north-eastward direction, developing present-day plate. In this research, we used 3D lithospheric-scale, data-integrative models current setting reveal, for first time, presence positive density anomalies uppermost mantle. These based on integration up-to-date geophysical datasets from Earth's surface down 200 km depth, validated using high-resolution free-air gravity measurements. Based residuals (modelled minus observed gravity), derive heterogeneities both crystalline mantle (<50 km). Our results reveal two beneath Colombian Venezuelan basins, interpreted preserved fossil conduits associated formation. Such bodies have never been identified before, but trend also indicated by S-wave tomography, least 75 depth. The spatially correlate thinner crustal regions present basins; therefore, propose modification commonly accepted tectonic model Caribbean, suggesting domains correspond centres uplift inflow hot, buoyant head. Finally, six different kinematic models, test originated above hotspot; however, misfits up ?3000 between hotspot location anomalies, reconstructed back 90 Therefore, shed light possible sources error responsible offset discuss interpretations: (1) (?1200–3000 km) westward while moved north, or (2) was plume, – if considered fixed would be nowadays located below South American continent.