Accretionary models for the Neoproterozoic evolution of the Borborema Province: advances and open questions

Abstract

Abstract The current knowledge on the accretionary evolution of the Borborema Province is evaluated considering recently published data and interpretations. Early to late Neoproterozoic eclogite, ophiolite, and magmatic arc remnants have been documented and point to oceanic crust consumption. Isotopic contrasts as well as geophysical anomalies across the major domain boundaries are suggestive of collisional sutures and a speculative model of terrane accretion is presented here. On the other hand, the lack of concise evidence for some of the proposed deep-seated structures as well as putative lithospheric continuity in both sides of it suggest reworking of previously continuous lithosphere through intracontinental deformation in localized sectors of the province interior. It is patent that one model does not preclude the other and available evidence so far has triggered the emergence of conciliatory proposals for the Neoporterozoic history the Borborema Province.

Keywords

• accretion tectonics
• Neoproterozoic terrane assembly
• Borborema Province