Role of lithosphere and mantle composition on tectonic and magmatic variability of oceanic accretion at slow spreading ridges

The Mid-Atlantic Ridge (MAR) is a complex system comprising spreading centers, transform faults and associated volcanic features, and it is divided into distinctive accretionary segments by axial discontinuities (Sempere et al., 1990). Our focus is on two specific sections of the MAR recently surveyed during several cruises, the central MAR and the equatorial MAR. Our aim is to investigate the complex interplay between tectonics, volcanism and hydrothermal processes in the building of the axial lithosphere.

At present, our investigation focuses on the central Mid-Atlantic Ridge (24° N to 24°40’ N), surveyed by the HERMINE 1 & 2 cruises. This area is characterized by extensive faulting demonstrating a broad spectrum of lengths and thrust magnitudes. The fault lengths vary from tens of meters to several kilometers, while thrust ranges from a few meters to 1.2 kilometers. The volcanic characteristics in this area encompass narrow, axis-parallel ridges emplaced on the rift valley floor as well as a range of volcanic features, from minor cones to substantial volcanoes.

The rift valley comprises a sequence of intermittent deep basins featuring minor linear topographic elevations on the valley floor associated with recent volcanism, suggestive of recent dike emplacement. The terrain is notably uneven, particularly in the northern section, where talus accumulates adjacent to a large normal fault of 9.2 kilometers long with a vertical offset of 930 meters, located at the segment end, possibly a detachment fault. Volcanic summits are present near this fault, suggesting a potential failed detachment. The spreading axis exhibits a slight clockwise rotation at 24°30’ N. Samples collected during the HERMINE 1 and 2 cruises through dredging and dive methods include various rock types such as basalts, gabbros and serpentinized/mineralized peridotites. The presence of serpentinized/mineralized peridotites provides clues about hydrothermal circulation and exhuming mantle rocks to the seafloor.

By addressing a joint study of the bathymetry and the sample petrology, we will study the evolution of this portion of the ridge axis in connection with tectonic, magmatic, and hydrothermal processes.