Phanerozoic tectonics of the South China Block: Key observations and controversies

► Introduction of the key geological observations on the Phanerozoic tectonics of the SCB hinterland. ► Description and discussion of the existing hypotheses and controversies on the Phanerozoic tectonics of the SCB. ► A geodynamic model for the Mesozoic tectonic evolution of the SCB is herein proposed.