Tectonic evolution of Anglesey and adjacent mainland North Wales

Abstract

Abstract The Appalachian–Caledonian Orogen preserves a complex record of piecemeal trans-oceanic terrane transfer and accretion during the early Paleozoic collision between West Gondwana and Laurentia, whilst the intervening Iapetus oceanic tracts were largely destroyed. The now preserved terranes include arc fragments of Laurentian and Gondwanan affinity, oceanic fragments incorporated into the Gondwanan continental margin, and remnants of the Gondwanan continental slope apron and adjacent platform (both Ganderia and Megumia). A new tectonostratigraphic synthesis for the island of Anglesey (and adjacent NW Wales) reveals a comprehensive record of the Appalachian orogenic cycle in the UK segment of the orogen of the peri-Gondwanan margin prior to amalgamation into the Laurentian margin. We identify elements of Late Neoproterozoic accretion forming the pre-Appalachian basement; Cambrian extension, deposition and continental margin growth; Early Ordovician accretion and renewed extension; and, finally, terminal Caledonian collision and continental foreland-basin development.