Reconstruction of the structural setting of the north-eastern side of the high Agri Valley (Southern Apennines, Italy) based on detailed field mapping

The Southern Apennines consist of a Cenozoic to Quaternary fold and thrust belt characterized by a complex structural architecture. In the axial portion of the chain, corresponding to the Agri Valley, folds and faults with multiple styles formed during the progressive emplacement of various tectonic units, derived from different paleodomains. In the available geological maps, the geometry of these tectonic structures is often hindered by scarce cartographic detail due to the use of basic stratigraphic subdivisions. Therefore, at the aim to better define these structures and contextually update the outcropping stratigraphic units, we realized a detailed geological map, which take into consideration not only the formation as basic stratigraphic units, but also finer subdivisions such as members or beds. Using this approach, we improved the stratigraphy of the area, we recognized new geological units and, eventually, we reconstructed the structural setting, and the tectonic evolution of the Agri Valley in detail.

Automated summary

The Southern Apennines is a complex structural system formed by the progressive emplacement of various tectonic units. In order to better define the structures and update the stratigraphic units, a detailed geological map was created, considering not only basic stratigraphic units but also finer subdivisions. This approach improved the stratigraphy of the area, identified new geological units, and reconstructed the structural setting and tectonic evolution of the Agri Valley in detail.