Imbricate Thrust Structure of the Northwestern Caucasus

摘要

Many geologists suggest a determinative role of folding in the formation of the Northwestern Caucasus structure. Mapped or drilled thrusts are considered minor structures complicating steep fold limbs. Moreover, they are often described as reverse or even normal faults. In accordance with the generally accepted concept of overthrusts as subordinate structures relative to faulting, they are shown as short unlinked segments, which do not extend beyond anticlinal folds [and others]. However, as will be shown below, this concept is erroneous and inconsistent with factual data. Actually, the genesis, morphology, and position of folds in plan view are completely controlled by overthrusts, which define the general tectonic style of the Northwestern Caucasus.