Tectonics of the Andaman Backarc Basin-Present Understanding and Some Outstanding Questions
Abstract
The Andaman Backarc Basin is characterized by active seafloor spreading spurred by the right stepping dextral shear imposed on the trans-basinal Sagaing-Andaman-Nicobar- Sumatra fault system and presents a complex tectonic history owing to some unique geophysical characteristics such as the absence of magnetic anomalies and thickly sedimented spreading center. Recent advances such as high-resolution seafloor mapping, extensive deep penetrating multichannel seismic reflection studies, deep drilling by JOIDES Resolution, GPS investigations and passive Ocean Bottom Seismometer experiment have greatly contributed to our understanding of this complex backarc basin. However, there are many outstanding questions and uncertainties with respect to the evolutionary sequence, emplacement of crustal types and their ages. This brief review is an attempt to bring into focus the present status of our understanding of the tectonics of the Andaman Backarc Basin, to highlight the outstanding questions and to suggest possible ways to address them.
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