Kinematics and geochronology of the Lancang metamorphic complex: Implications for the evolution of the Paleo-Tethys region

Abstract

The Lancang metamorphic complex is a key component of the Three River Tethys Orogen in the SE Tibetan Plateau, with typical rock assemblages and deformation fabrics recording the subduction of the Paleo-Tethys Ocean and subsequent continental collision. In this study, we present new petrographic and structural observations, together with zircon U-Pb and mica 40Ar/39Ar geochronologic data, to reveal the deformation and kinematics of the Lancang metamorphic complex, thus providing insights into the Permian−Triassic evolution of the eastern Paleo-Tethys domain. The subduction of the Paleo-Tethys Ocean and subsequent collision resulted in a range of structural features, including penetrative regional foliations, thrusts, asymmetric folds at various scales, and ductile deformation fabrics such as asymmetric boudins and porphyroclasts. Zircon U-Pb dating of foliated gabbro and 40Ar/39Ar dating of mica schist and mylonite, which preserve shortening fabrics, suggest that the Paleo-Tethys Ocean was subducted during the Late Carboniferous to Permian−Early Triassic, and the collision of the Baoshan and Simao blocks mainly occurred during ca. 237−230 Ma in the SE Tibetan Plateau. Regional deformation likely shifted from shortening to extension ca. 230 Ma, as reflected by post-collision high-K calc-alkaline magmatism. Our results document regional structural patterns and place timing constraints on the evolution of the Paleo-Tethys Ocean.