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Spreading ridge migration enabled by plume-ridge de-anchoring

Author

Listed:
  • Ben Mather

    (The University of Sydney)

  • Maria Seton

    (The University of Sydney)

  • Simon Williams

    (University of Tasmania)

  • Joanne Whittaker

    (University of Tasmania)

  • Rebecca Carey

    (University of Tasmania)

  • Maëlis Arnould

    (University of Lyon, UCBL, ENSL, UJM, CNRS)

  • Nicolas Coltice

    (Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, IRD, Géoazur)

  • Robert Duncan

    (Oregon State University)

Abstract

It has long been recognised that spreading ridges are kept in place by competing subduction forces that drive plate motions. Asymmetric strain rates pull spreading ridges in the direction of the strongest slab pull force, which partially explains why spreading ridges can migrate vast distances. However, the interaction between mantle plumes and spreading ridges plays a relatively unknown role on the evolution of plate boundaries. Using a numerical model of mantle convection, we show that plumes with high buoyancy flux (>3000 kg/s) can capture spreading ridges within a 1000 km radius and anchor them in place. Exceptionally high buoyancy fluxes may fragment the overriding plate into smaller plates to accommodate more efficient plate motion. If the plume buoyancy flux wanes below 1000 kg/s the ridge may be de-anchored, leading to rapid ridge migration rates when combined with asymmetric plate boundary forces. Our results show that plume-ridge de-anchoring may have contributed to the rapid migration of the SE Indian Ridge from 43 million years ago (Ma) due to waning buoyancy flux from the Kerguelen plume, supported by magma flux estimates and radiogenic isotope geochemistry of eruption products. The plume-ridge de-anchoring mechanism we have identified has global implications for the evolution of plate boundaries near mantle plumes.

Suggested Citation

  • Ben Mather & Maria Seton & Simon Williams & Joanne Whittaker & Rebecca Carey & Maëlis Arnould & Nicolas Coltice & Robert Duncan, 2024. "Spreading ridge migration enabled by plume-ridge de-anchoring," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 15(1), pages 1-11, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:15:y:2024:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-024-53397-w
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-53397-w
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. T. D. Jones & D. R. Davies & I. H. Campbell & G. Iaffaldano & G. Yaxley & S. C. Kramer & C. R. Wilson, 2017. "The concurrent emergence and causes of double volcanic hotspot tracks on the Pacific plate," Nature, Nature, vol. 545(7655), pages 472-476, May.
    2. Steven C. Cande & Dave R. Stegman, 2011. "Indian and African plate motions driven by the push force of the Réunion plume head," Nature, Nature, vol. 475(7354), pages 47-52, July.
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