The geological significance of the western termination of the Mérens Fault at Port Vell (central Pyrenees)

A detailed local structural map of the Mérens Fault zone at Port Vell (Vall Ferrera) reveals that the main fault-related mylonite band splits westwards into a network of mylonite zones. These consist of bands of highly-strained rocks exhibiting tightened folds, transposed foliations and extensive obliteration of pre-existing structures. Evidence of continuity of marble layers across the Port Vell mylonite zone, and structural and metamorphic similarities on both sides of the Port Vell mylonite band, indicate that there is no significant throw across it. The mylonite foliation forms parallel to the axial planes of tight folds in or near the mylonite zone which can be related to more open folds in adjacent areas. The Port Vell mylonite band corresponds to a pinched W-E axial trending late fold. In order to estimate the importance of these results, a review of the controversial geological significance of mylonite belts in the Pyrenees, with special emphasis on the Mérens Fault, introduces the paper. © 1986.