New Data on the Structure of the Megatransform System of the Doldrums (Central Atlantic)

Abstract

The geological and geophysical data acquired during cruise 45 of R/V Akademik Nikolaj Strakhov regarding the structure of the Doldrums megatransform system in the Central Atlantic are presented. Taking into account the data of the previous expeditions, the structure of this region is examined in detail. The bathymetric data confirm the complex morphology, consisting of five dextral transform faults, separated by four active intra-transform rift segments and indicates the variability of tectonic conditions in this region. The dredged rocks are represented by the entire spectrum from the mantle to the upper crustal varieties and, together with the detailed topographic data, make it possible to identify the origin of the key structures in the Doldrums megatransform system.