Gorringe Ridge gravity and magnetic anomalies are compatible with thrusting at a crustal scale

The main features of the deep structure of the Gorringe Ridge are analysed on the basis of gravity and magnetic measurements, as well as seismic profiles, drill holes, rock dredges, submersible observations and seismicity data. The gravity and magnetic models of the Gettysburg and Ormonde seamounts, which form the Gorringe Ridge, suggest that the Moho is approximately flat and the upper part of the ridge corresponds to a northwestwards vergent fold. This structure is the result of a northwestward vergent thrust that deformed the oceanic crust, with a minimum slip of approximately 20 km. The activity of the thrust probably started 20 Myr, and produced the recent stages of seamount uplift. The seamount is mainly composed of gabbros of the oceanic crust, serpentinized rocks and alkaline basalts. The large antiform, located in the hangingwall of the thrust, is probably deformed by minor faults. This oceanic ridge is a consequence of the oblique convergence between the African Plate and the overlapping Eurasian Plate.