01-05 December 2025
INCOIS, Hyderabad, India.
| Abstract Submission No. | ABS-09-0361 |
| Title of Abstract | Fine-Scale Geomorphology of Near-Axis Seafloor at the Central Indian Ridge: Tectono-Magmatic Controls and Geodynamic Implications |
| Authors | K.S. Sreenidhi*, V. Sunil, C. M. Bijesh , P. John Kurian |
| Organisation | National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research, Goa |
| Address | Flat No. A-506, Mohidin'a Iconia, Dabolim Vasco da Gama, Goa, India Pincode: 403801 E-mail: sreenidhi@ncpor.res.in |
| Country | India |
| Presentation | Oral |
| Abstract | Understanding the morphological framework of near-axis seafloor is key to unravelling tectono-magmatic interactions that shape the ocean floor in both local and regional contexts. The southern segments of the Central Indian Ridge, with their intermediate spreading rates, exhibit complementary tectonic and magmatic components that together drive seafloor spreading. We utilise ultra-high-resolution bathymetry and backscatter data acquired by an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) survey over an area of ~ 50 sq. km area over a southern segment of the Central Indian Ridge, to characterise the morphological features of this region. A semi-automated workflow for fracture identification was applied to bathymetry derivatives, revealing a well-developed fracture system comprising 1,564 faults and 169 fissures. Statistical analysis indicates that the fracture regime is currently in the growth stage, with indications of early coalescence processes. Fault dip analyses show both east- and west-dipping fault populations, with implications for strain partitioning within the fracture regime. Kernel density estimation highlights fracture density variations across the block, providing quantitative constraints on spatial clustering of tectonic strain. Terrain classification based on bathymetry, fracture density, and backscatter intensity maps reveals that 73.4% of the surveyed area is hummocky, of which nearly half is highly fractured, reflecting strong tectono-magmatic associations. Several eruptive centres are also recognised and characterised, suggesting interplay between deformation and volcanic resurfacing. Integration with regional shipborne bathymetry provides interpretations of strain partition between fault populations of opposite dips, their association with magmatic episodes, and the possibility of this region representing a non-transform discontinuity. |
| Are you part of IIOE-2 endorsed project | no |
| Keywords | Central Indian Ridge, Seafloor morphology, Tectono-magmatic interactions, Fracture system, AUV Bathymetry |
| For Awards | yes |
| Date Of Birth | 18-01-1994 |
| ECSN Registration Number | IIOE2-ECSN-0182 |