Relative Tectonic Activity Assessment of the Cameli Basin, Western Anatolia, Using Geomorphic Indices

Abstract

Western Anatolia is one of the world's most seismically active regions. A nearly N-S-oriented extension caused the formation of E-W- and NE-SW-trending major grabens, creating the potential for earthquakes with magnitudes5. The fault segments of the NE-trending Cameli Basin were evaluated using geomorphic indices, common tools for assessment of relative tectonic activity in such areas. Quantitative measurement of geomorphic indices including mountain-front sinuosity (Smf; 1.35-2.39), valley floor width-to-height ratios (Vf; 0.080.37), and hypsometric integral (HI; 0.31-1.05) suggest relatively higher tectonic activity along western and southern part of the basin. Hypsometric curves for all segments of the faults mostly exhibit concave or straight profiles, signifying existence of young mountain fronts in the Cameli Basin. These calculations indicate that the Cameli Basin is tectonically active and, southern/south-western areas of this depression have earthquake potential, consistent with epicentres of recent earthquakes, occurred along some fault segments. Possible reason of this activity seems to be related to the E-W-trending corridor lying between the Gulf of Gokova and south-eastern part of the Cameli Basin, represented by active normal faults. These findings should be valid beyond the Cameli Basin for similar situations along the Isparta Angle's western margin.