Geological evolution of Central Asian Basins and the western Tien Shan Range

The geological evolution of the western Tien Shan Range and adjacent Central Asian basins reveals a dynamic history shaped by multiple tectonic events, from Precambrian-Palaeozoic orogenesis to Cenozoic continental collisions. This study highlights how the accretion of Cimmerian blocks during the Mesozoic and subsequent collisions involving the Indian and Arabian plates led to structural reactivation, intracontinental deformation, and the formation of sedimentary basins. The research integrates multidisciplinary approaches to elucidate the Late Palaeozoic–Cenozoic tectono-sedimentary evolution, emphasizing fault reactivation patterns and the climatic influence on sedimentation. These findings provide a comprehensive framework for understanding the complex interplay between tectonic processes and basin development in this UNESCO-listed region.

Brunet, M.-F., Sobel, E. R., & McCann, T. (2017). Geological evolution of Central Asian Basins and the western Tien Shan Range. Geological Society, London, Special Publications, 427(1), 1–17. https://doi.org/10.1144/sp427.17