Comparing intrarift and border fault structure in the Malawi Rift: Implications for normal fault growth

Early stages of normal fault growth are seldom described using field observations of active normal faults. Here we first estimate the displacements of active border and intrarift faults in the Zomba Graben in the low extension (< 10 %) Malawi Rift, and then quantify micro-to macroscale fault damage and mineralisation associated with their surface exposures. The 22 km long Mlunguzi and 39 km long Chingale Step intrarift faults have fault zones 4-52 m wide. In contrast, we estimate the fault zone of the 51 km long Zomba border fault is 32-118 m wide. Calcite and clay alteration is limited to the fault damage zones and fault cores, and the extent and intensity of fault damage and mineral alteration is greater on the Zomba border fault compared to the intrarift faults. Relative to global compilations, normal faults in the Zomba Graben have lengthened quickly while developing narrow fault zones, given their displacement. The minor damage on these long, low-displacement normal faults may reflect the influence of lithology, negligible fault healing, and/or activation of pre-existing weaknesses.

Automated summary

The early stages of normal fault growth in the Zomba Graben have been investigated through field observations. The study provides insights into the displacement of active border and intrarift faults, as well as the extent of fault damage and mineralisation associated with their surface exposures. The results suggest that the Zomba border fault has a wider fault zone compared to the intrarift faults, with greater fault damage and mineral alteration. The research findings also highlight the rapid lengthening of normal faults in the area, despite their low displacement.