The proto-type basin and tectono-paleogeographic evolution of the Tarim basin in the Late Paleozoic

The Tarim basin is a large composite and superimposed sedimentary that has undergone complex multi-period polycyclic tectonic movements. Understanding the proto-type tectono-paleogeographic evolution of this important for understanding basin-mountain coupling dynamical mechanisms Paleo-Asian Tethys systems as well hydrocarbon exploration development. Based on previous works, together with recent exploration, geological evidences, three global plate pattern maps, four maps (in present-day geographic coordinates) regional tectono-paleogeography paleogeographic during Late Paleozoic are provided in paper. these features illustrated. Devonian to Permian an period terranes/island-arcs accretion oceanic closure along periphery block, critical when polarity (orientation long-axis) rotated at maximum angle clockwise. During Paleozoic, block was first collisional orogeny its northern margin, followed by continuous island arcs southern margin: Northern North South Tianshan Oceans closed from East West; South-Western Tianshuihai Island Arc gradually collided accreted. These events reduced extent seawater channel passive continental margin Western part until complete end Permian. thus completely transformed into inland basin. This process regression uplift. Southwest changed active through back-arc downwarping eventually foreland setting. intra-basin lithofacies range shelf-littoral platform-tidal flat alluvial plain-lacustrine facies. tectonic-sedimentary strongly controlled peripheral geotectonic