Subduction initiation at the corner of small oceanic basin

Abstract

In Southeast Asia, emerging subduction zones often appear to begin at the corners of small oceanic basins, which have a triangular-indenter continent–ocean boundary geometry. To investigate the influence of a triangular indenter on subduction initiation, we performed a series of three-dimensional numerical simulations with varying indenter angles and base lengths. The results show that the apex of the indenter constitutes the initial location of subduction, irrespective of the angle or the extent of the indenter. Smaller angle indenters are more likely to facilitate subduction initiation. At the same time, wide acute angle indenters are difficult to form. Our findings suggest that triangular indenter structures may facilitate subduction initiation in smaller basins; however, the role such indenters in subduction initiation is limited in larger basins. Our results emphasize the importance of accounting for the three-dimensional geometry of a subduction zone when examining its subduction dynamics and geological features.