Contribution of different kinematic models and a complex Jurassic stratigraphy in the construction of a forward model for the Montagna dei Fiori fault‐related fold (Central Apennines, Italy)

Abstract

Abstract The Montagna dei Fiori has received attention from geologists over the past decades because of both its Jurassic stratigraphy and its complex present‐day structure. The latter is the result of multiple phases of deformation, from the Early Jurassic, during the opening of the Tethyan Ocean, to Neogene evolution of the Apennines fold‐and‐thrust belt. In this paper, we present a new stratigraphic interpretation of the Jurassic palaeogeography, based on a new geological mapping project in the area. Using this new stratigraphy, we constructed two forward models, using a combination of different fault/fold interactions, in order to unravel the kinematic evolution of the Montagna dei Fiori fault‐related fold. The first model was constructed manually using the fault‐bend and fault‐propagation theories from an initial configuration which included previous extensional features, whereas the second model was constructed using the software 2DMove (Midland Valley) using the fault‐bend and trishear fault‐propagation folding theories and starting from a layer‐cake stratigraphy. Both forward models involved the same main steps and provided a reasonable geological simulation of the geometry of the Montagna dei Fiori structure. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.