Analysis of James Ross Island volcanic complex and sedimentary basin based on high-resolution aeromagnetic data

High-resolution aeromagnetic surveys provide a geophysical tool to help image the subsurface structure of volcanoes and their tectonic framework. Here we interpret high-resolution aeromagnetic data and models for James Ross archipelago and surrounding regions to provide a new perspective on Neogene magmatism emplaced along the eastern margin of the Antarctic Peninsula. Based on the analysis and modelling of magnetic anomalies we were able to image the subglacial extent of Miocene to Recent alkaline rocks of the James Ross Island Volcanic Group and map tectonic structures that appear to have exerted important controls on Neogene magmatism. High-amplitude linear anomalies detected over Mount Haddington stratovolcano were modelled as caused by subvertical feeder bodies extending to a depth of at least 3 km. These feeder bodies may have been emplaced along a N–S oriented volcano-tectonic rift zone. We also identified several effusive subglacial centres and imaged two concentric magnetic arcs, which we related to Neogene volcanic and subvolcanic lineaments, likely controlled by Mid-Cretaceous strike-slip fault belts and associated deformation zones. The regional magnetic quiet zone that encompasses James Ross Island is caused by the thick sedimentary infill of the Larsen Basin, and a low-amplitude magnetic high within the basin is inferred to reflect a basement push-up structure associated with strike-slip faulting along the eastern edge of the Antarctic Peninsula. In the offshore regions magnetic anomalies southwest of Tabarin Peninsula and west of Vega Island may reflect recent volcanic structures that have yet to emerge from the sea-floor.

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