A Probabilistic Assessment of the Causes of Active Deformation in the
East Central Mediterranean Using Spherical Finite Element Models
Abstract
Plate boundary deformation zones represent a challenge in terms of
understanding their underlying geodynamic drivers. Active deformation is
well constrained by GNSS observations in the SW Balkans, Greece and W
Turkey, and is characterized by variable extension and strike slip in an
overall context of slow convergence of the Nubia plate relative to
stable Eurasia. Diverse, and all potentially viable, forces have been
proposed as the cause of the observed surface deformation, e.g.,
asthenospheric flow, horizontal gravitational stresses (HGSs) from
lateral variations in gravitational potential energy, and rollback of
the Hellenic slab. We use Bayesian inference to constrain the relative
contribution of the proposed driving and resistive regional forces. Our
models are spherical 2D finite element models representing vertical
lithospheric averages. In addition to regional plate boundaries, the
models include well-constrained fault zones like north and south
branches of the North Anatolian Fault, Gulf of Corinth and faults
bounding the Menderes Massif. Boundary conditions represent geodynamic
processes: (1) far-field relative plate motions (2) resistive fault
tractions (3) HGSs mainly from lateral variations in topography and Moho
topology (4) slab pull and trench suction at subduction zones. The
magnitude of each of these is a parameter in a Bayesian analysis of the
models in the context of horizontal GNSS velocities. The search yields a
probability distribution over all parameters, allowing us to determine
mean/median parameter values, robustly estimate parameter uncertainties,
and identify tradeoffs. Significant trench suction forces from the
Hellenic slab act on the overriding Aegean Sea, including along the
Pliny-Strabo STEP Fault. Resistive tractions on most plate boundaries
and faults are low. The best-fitting models compare well with
paleomagnetic rotations and fault slip rates from previous studies.