Seismicity and structure of the Zagros (Iran): the Main Recent Fault between 33 and 35° N

Abstract

The most recent tectonic deformation of the Zagros, and in particular the late Quaternary right-lateral wrench movement along the Main Recent Fault, is summarized in the context of the general tectonic history of the range. The seismicity along the Main Recent Fault between latitudes 33 and 35° N is examined, and details are given for several destructive earthquakes, including the 1909 Selakhor earthquake which was associated with over 40 km of surface faulting along a segment of the Main Recent Fault and which is described here for the first time. The relation between the seismicity and the individual fault segments forming the Main Recent Fault is studied and interpreted in terms of a continuing right-lateral strike slip deformation. The implications of this contemporary deformation for the seismotectonics of the Zagros are considered, and in particular its bearing on the problem of the relative motion of the Arabian Plate with respect to Central Iran.