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Morphometric scaling of subsurface vent complexes: implications for a new classification scheme

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Abstract

This paper provides a novel classification scheme for magma-induced subsurface vent complexes based on morphometric data and stacking patterns. The study area is the Naglfar Dome in the Vøring Basin where the interaction between magmatic intrusions and vent complexes is well known. Seismic interpretation, characterization and morphometric analyses of 35 vent complexes observed within the Palaeocene-Eocene strata were done from a high-quality, three-dimensional seismic reflection data. The vent complexes have dome-shaped, eye-shaped, fault-controlled and reactivated upper termini, and are linked to their root zones by columnar, downward-tapered and fault-related fluid conduits or pipes. Statistical analyses and cross plots of L-A and Dmax-Hmax allowed the discrimination of vents and pipes into their genetic types. A new classification scheme based on the morphometric sub-division and structures of subsurface vent complexes is introduced to include S-P-V, S-P-F, V-P-V and V-P-F types. These combinations freshly demonstrate the importance of morphometric data at deciphering the nature, timing, classification and activity of subsurface fluid vent complexes.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Geology, School of Earth Science, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia

    Shambel B. Mituku

  2. Timelapsegeo, Stiklestadveien 1, 7041, Trondheim, Norway

    Kamaldeen Olakunle Omosanya

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  1. Shambel B. Mituku
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Shambel B. Mituku was formerly affiliated with the Department of Petroleum and Geoscience, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, NTNU, Trondheim

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Mituku, S.B., Omosanya, K.O. Morphometric scaling of subsurface vent complexes: implications for a new classification scheme. Geo-Mar Lett 40, 659–674 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00367-020-00661-9

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