Contribution of integrated geophysical data in the structural characterization of the El Hamma graben zone (Southern Tunisia): Example of a pull-apart basin along the South Atlasic Fault Corridor

Stratigraphic and structural data collected from several outcrops were correlated with the tectonic events and paleostress reconstruction. New data shows that the PSCs marked a dextral transtensive kinematic framework during the N80° directed Upper Cretaceous extension. The extensional movements are the N150˚-180° Paleogene extension and associated transpression during the N130° Neogene shortening. The dextral sliding generated and maintained the opening of the El Hamma-Gabes graben system, creating a “pull-apart” basin that opened in an extensive ramp between the two PSCs. The overall extension of this ramp is estimated to 15% of the initial width.