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

摘要

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 Voring 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 D-max-H-max 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.