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Deep geometry of Triassic evaporite bodies associated with the Bazina

structure, North Tunisia: new insights from gravity modeling

Article in Acta Geophysica · February 2024

DOI: 10.1007/s11600-024-01285-8

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Acta Geophysica
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11600-024-01285-8

RESEARCH ARTICLE - SPECIAL ISSUE

Deep geometry of Triassic evaporite bodies associated with the Bazina

structure, North Tunisia: new insights from gravity modeling
Mohamed Atawa1,2 · Taher Zouaghi3

Received: 18 June 2023 / Accepted: 11 December 2023

© The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Institute of Geophysics of the Polish Academy of Sciences 2024

Abstract
The Triassic outcrop in the Bazina structure is known among the largest massif in northern Tunisia. Its tectonic setting and
sub-surface geometry are related to geodynamics and kinematics in North Africa and western Mediterranean domains.
Gravity data processing and interpretation over the Hedil region highlight deep faulting and the geometry of Bazina structure
and the neighboring ones. Enhancement of the residual anomaly, which represents the gravity response of sedimentary cover,
mainly horizontal gradient map and its maxima, reveals varied oriented lineaments. The E–W conspicuous direction covers
and delimits the outcropping Triassic body. However, the NE–SW major direction, highlighting eastward and southward of
the Bazina structure, coincides with Cretaceous exposures. Furthermore, less extended N- and NW-trending features were
highlighted. Limits and depth of deep gravity causative bodies were located using the Euler deconvolution method.
3D inversion and 2D forward gravity modeling combined with geological outcrops enabled the reconstruction of the Triassic
bodies and surrounding structures. The study area reveals piercing diapiric structures and salt wrinkles. This Bazina evaporite
exposure corresponds to a deep-rooted diapir marked by a southward evaporite lateral outpouring related to the Eocene
Pyrenean compressive tectonic phase. The evaporite lateral flow should be controlled by reactivation of preexisting regional
faults with its thermodynamic conditions and asymmetrical basin geometry.

Keywords Gravity processing · Modeling · Bazina exposure · Deep-rooted diapir · Southward outpouring · Northern
Tunisia

Introduction is always attached to inherited tectonic events, which have

The Hedil region belongs to a transitional domain lim-
ited by the Tellian Atlas northward and the Tunisia Atlas
southward (Fig. 1). Geodynamics in North African margin
Edited by Dr. Nikos Papadopoulos (GUEST EDITOR) /
Prof. Gabriela Fernández Viejo (CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF).
* Mohamed Atawa
moh.atawa2015@gmail.com
Taher Zouaghi
tzouaghi@kau.edu.sa; taher.zouaghi2018@gmail.com
1
Laboratory of Georesources, Water Researches
and Technologies Center (CERTE),
8020 Soliman, Borj Cedria, Tunisia
2
Department of Earth Sciences, FSB, University of Carthage,
7021 Jarzouna, Tunisia
3
Department of Geo‑Exploration Techniques, Faculty
of Earth Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, 21589 Jeddah,
Saudi Arabia
induced evolution of basins close the Mediterranean Sea
(e.g., Cohen 1980; Dercourt et al. 1986, 2000; Martinez
et al. 1990; vila et al. 2002; Gaetani et al. 2003; Zouaghi
et al. 2005, 2013; Rekhiss 2007; Frizon de Lamotte et al.
2009; Melki et al.2010, 2011; Gharsalli et al. 2013; Haji
et al. 2014; Souei et al. 2018). The sedimentary series fos-
silized several tectonic phases mainly linked to the Pangea
supercontinent decomposition, and the Tethys Sea opening
and its current closure. The major tectonics were considered
as part of the structural evolution in North Africa. Three
periods were defined: (i) pre-Triassic to early Cretaceous
rifting; (ii) upper Cretaceous of dominant extensions; and
(iii) Cenozoic of dominating compressive movements with
short extensions (e.g., Burollet 1951; Burollet 1971; Caire
et al. 1971; Cohen 1980; Lamos 1980; Wildi 1983; Rehault
et al. 1984; Zargouni 1985; Bouillin 1986; Ben Ayed 1993;
Chihi 1995; Boukadi 1996; Yaïch et al. 2000; Rekhiss 2007;
Masrouhi et al. 2008; Ben Mehrez et al. 2009; Melki et al.

Vol.:(0123456789)
Acta Geophysica
 Acta Geophysica
◂Fig. 1  A Tectonic map of northern Tunisia displaying regional faults
in the Atlas domain and its foreland basins. Geological exposures and
faults are mapped 1/500.000 by several authors (e.g., Castany 1951;
Ben Haj Ali et al. 1998; Melki et al. 2012). B Geological map of the
Bazina region (Batik 1976)
2010, 2011; Zouaghi et al. 2011a, 2013; Haji et al. 2014;
Amri et al. 2020).
Location and kinematics of the evaporite Triassic out-
crops around the study area (Fig. 1) were largely studied
and interpreted, in previous works, which proposed different
hypotheses. Kujawski (1964) and Crampon (1973) showed
that the rise of the Bazina diapiric structure is often associ-
ated with old series. Caire et al. (1971) proposed the alloch-
thonous model highlighting the Triassic deposits of Bazina
structure as the sliding surface that is making the thrust-
ing to the SE easier Biely and Rakus (1972) and Rouvier
(1973) adopted the allochthonous model that considered the
Bazina structure as only a thrust layer deposited in a syncline
bordered by high anticlines. However, Batik (1976) con-
siders that the Triassic mass has pierced the cover through
an E-trending ancient fault and slightly spilled northward
and southward following consecutive contractional tectonic
phases.
Coupling previous works and outcropping data with grav-
ity measurements, over the Bazina complex structure and
its surroundings, aims to identify subsurface structures and
geometry of the Triassic exposure mass, and its relation with
the adjacent Mesozoic and Cenozoic sedimentary layers.
Geological setting
The Bazina E-oriented structure is known as one of the
largest Triassic massif in northern Tunisia belongs to the
Hedil region (Fig. 1), which is a part of the Atlas domain.
Field geological mapping shows overlapping sets related to
the Triassic outcrops. The Mesozoic and Cenozoic series are
located in tectonic contact with the Triassic evaporate facies
(e.g., Rouvier 1973, 1985; Batik 1976; Bobier et al. 1991;
Ben Ayed 1993; Hammami 1999; Ben Mehrez et al. 2009;
Melki et al.2011; Marzougui et al. 2015; Atawa et al. 2019).
Structural and sedimentary studies carried out around
the study area highlighted the effect of extensional and
compression tectonic phases (e.g., Rouvier 1985; Ben Ayed
1993; El Euchi et al. 1998, 2004; Melki et al. 2011, 2012;
Marzougui et al. 2015; Atawa et al. 2016, 2019). The NE-
and E-oriented structures are the witnesses of these phases.
The folded structures of Jebel Jbira, Jebel el Ajred and
Kef Maksour overlap deep faults corresponding to NE–SW
features occupied by Triassic intrusions (e.g., Solignac 1927;
Rouvier 1973, 1985; Piqué et al. 1998; Jallouli et al. 2005;
Atawa et al. 2016, 2019). Around the Ras Elkorane-Thibar-
Ouenza master fault, Triassic deposits are exposed in some
localities such as Aien Rhanana, El Blelma and Henchir el
Harch (Rouvier 1973, 1985).
Current geometries and extensions of Triassic outcrops in
northern Tunisia should be controlled by dominant Mesozoic
extension and then by subsequent Cenozoic compression
phases (e.g., Jauzein 1967; Caire et al. 1971; Zargouni
1977; Perthuisot 1978; Guiraud and Bosworth 1997; Ben
Chelbi et al.2006; Khomsi et al. 2009; Zouaghi et al. 2011b,
2013; Melki et al. 2012). The Bazina structure is blocked
between folded structures of different ages. To the north, the
Triassic exposure is bounded by Campanian–Maastrichtian
limestones of Jebel el Ouahchi-Kef Maksour; to the west, the
structure is delimited by upper Cretaceous limestones of the
Tabouna anticline. To the south and to the east, lower Eocene
nummulite limestones and Campanian–Maastrichtian
limestones, respectively, limit the Triassic massif (Fig. 1B).
Data and methods
Gravity in the study area (Fig. 2) was measured by the
National Office of Mines (ONM) Company of Tunisia in
1999, with 1 ­km2 spacing grid (Fig. 2). The theoretical grav-
ity was calculated using the 1967 G0 formula and density of
2.40 g/cm3 (Fig. 3A). To keep only the effects due to geo-
logical structures, the gravity data underwent the required
corrections which are, the instrumental drift correction, the
latitude correction, the elevation correction, the plateau cor-
rection, the terrain correction. The Bouguer gravity anomaly
was calculated using the required corrections.
Residual/regional frequency separation
The separation of the sedimentary series effects (residual
anomaly map, Fig. 5A) and the deep regional anomaly
map (Fig. 3B) (Bhattacharyya 1966; Blakely 1996) was
performed by the application of the Gaussian filter to the
Bouguer anomaly map.
(
k2
)
Regional filter ∶ L(k) = e 2k2
0 , (1)
( )
k2
Residual filter ∶ L(k) = 1 − e
−
2k2
0 . (2)
To better identify the major outcrop structures, a Gauss-
ian regional/residual filter with a standard deviation of
0.007 ­km−1 is applied in the wave number domain to the
Bouguer anomaly to determine the residual anomaly associ-
ated with relatively shallow sources (Fig. 4).
 Acta Geophysica

Fig. 2  Digital elevation model (DEM) of the study area with the gravity measurements and the base stations location

L (k) represents the Gaussian filter in spectral domain, k Euler deconvolution

is the wave number of cycle’s ­km−1, and ­k0 represents the
standard deviation of the Gaussian function in ­km−1. The Euler deconvolution technique is applied to calculate
solution depths. These descriptive depths are estimated
Source edge detection by the Euler homogeneity equation (Thompson 1982;
Reid et al. 1990). The obtained map shows location of
The horizontal gradient magnitude (HGM) is among the derived sources represented by proportional depth
methods used to detect the horizontal limits of the gravity to diameter. The identified depths around the deep
causative sources (Jacoby and Smilde 2009; Blakely 1996). structure are heterogeneous indicating different origins of
They highlight the gravity lineaments that correspond to lineaments.
faults or to limits between geological structures.
( ) 𝜕𝜏 ( ) 𝜕𝜏 ( ) 𝜕𝜏
√ x − x0 + y − y0 z − z0 = N(B − 𝜏), (4)
( )2 ( )2 𝜕x 𝜕y 𝜕z
𝜕g(x, y) 𝜕g(x, y)
HGM(x, y) = + , (3)
x0 , y0 , z0 corresponds to the location of the gravity source;
( )
𝜕x 𝜕y
( )2 ( )2 B is the regional gravity field; ∂τ corresponds to the horizon-
𝜕g(x,y)
𝜕x
and 𝜕g(x,y)
𝜕y
are the derivatives along N- and tal pipeline; and N is the structural index (SI).
E-oriented axes.
Acta Geophysica

Inverse and forward gravity modeling The Bazina Triassic outcrops structure is a good
example of low-density salt material. The folded structures
The obtained 3D density contrast model is in agreement represented by Campanian–Maastrichtian limestone are
with the field exposures in the Bazina region (Fig. 8). The oriented NE–SW.
choice of sections crossing the Bazina Triassic structure
gives us an idea of its structural position (Fig. 5B). Residual/regional frequency separation
The gravity–magnetic inversion method was established
by Li and Oldenburg (1996, 1998). The recovered density The residual anomaly map mainly represents the sedi-
contrast models present the response of the buried material mentary structures in the Bazina region of different direc-
densities. Their geometry depends on sub-surface geological tions (Fig. 5A). NE–SW major feature of positive anomaly
structures. The recovered contrast values are calculated responses is represented in some localities with the upper
using a correction density equal to 2.4 g/cm3. Cretaceous and Eocene limestones (Fig. 5B). The Jebel
Azzag, Jebel BouTouil, Henchir el Ouarda, Jebel el Ouahch,
pred )2
Jebel el Hara and Grembil structures are characterized by
n
(
∑ diobs − di
𝜙d (m) = , positive anomaly responses that coincide with upper Creta-
𝜀i
ceous limestones of the Abiod Formation (Fig. 5B). Other
i=0

localities show positive anomaly that coincides with Mio-

d ))2 cene–Pliocene lacustrine limestones in Dir Bou Arrouje to
( )2 ( (
𝜙m =𝛼s ∫ m − m0 dx + 𝛼x m − m0 dx
dx the SW. The Aien Ettout positive anomaly, to the SE, is rep-
( )2 (
) 2
) (5) resented by lower Eocene Nummilitic limestones (Fig. 5B).
d( ) d(
+ 𝛼y m − m0 dy + 𝛼z m − m0 dz, This major direction is characterized by negative anomaly
dy dz
responses, which are generally limited in depocenters filled
N cor responds to the number of geophysical by Quaternary and Neogene deposits.
measurements; diobs is the measurements at location i; In the northern part of the region, the Oued el Bouazine
di is the predated measurements at location i; 𝜀i is the
pred
trough represented by Paleocene clays is marked by lengthening
standard deviation; 𝛼s is the proximity degree weighting of of the negative anomaly (Fig. 5B). To the east, the Jebel Ballouta
the reference model; 𝛼x,𝛼y and 𝛼z define smoothing in x, y anomaly coincides with Santonian marly series. To the south-
and z directions; m0 is the reference model (Fig. 8A); and west of the study area, the Aien el Berbaga is represented by a
m is the model. negative response, which corresponds to the Eocene deposit.
Three NW–SE gravity models (Figs. 1B and 5B) are The negative anomaly in Lalla Zaroura structure is represented
made using the GM-SYS tool in the Oasis Montaj software. by Paleocene clays (Fig. 5B). NE–SW negative gravity anoma-
Each polygon represents one geological unit marked by lies include the Henchir el Gattara and Henchir Gandouza struc-
density value. The density measurements depend on the tures represented by Pliocene clays and Miocene marine marls
nature of the facies as well as on their depth. Different tests (Fig. 5B). In the SE part, the Henchir Ben Azzeddine and Jebel
were applied on each polygon to have the closest response Tahent structures, which expose Paleocene clay and Eocene,
to the measured data. Density values were estimated in are included in a NE-oriented negative anomaly. The Henchir
the study area (Table 1). The lowest values characterize el Borj anomaly coincides with the upper cretaceous deposit.
basins filled by Quaternary, Neogene and Triassic deposits The El Blelma structure of Triassic outcropping reflects a deep
(2.1–2.27 g/cm3). The Paleogene, Cretaceous and Jurassic negative anomaly (Fig. 5B).
deposits reveal a density ranging from 2.3 to 2.6 g/cm3. The E–W direction is essentially highlighted to the north and
to the south of the Bazina Triassic intrusion (Fig. 5A). A posi-
tive anomaly such that Kef Maksour structure, coincides with
Results late Cretaceous limestones (Fig. 5B). At the Bazina outcrop, the
Si BouBsila structure consists of Triassic evaporites and cor-
Bouguer anomaly responds to an E–W positive anomaly. To the south, the Aein
Babouche structure, which coincides with lower Eocene Glo-
The Bouguer anomaly map represents all effects of bigerina limestone, is represented by an E–W positive anom-
subsurface structures (Fig. 3A). To the northeast and western aly (Fig. 5B). To the NW of the study area, the Si Otsmane
parts, the Jebel Azzag, Jebel Jbira and Sfaiet kef Zara el Haddad structure presents a negative anomaly (Fig. 5B). It
structures respond highs to almost 13 mGal gravity field coincides with Mio-Pliocene sands and upper Oligocene clays
(Fig. 3A). Southward, the Henchir Ben Azzeddine, Jebel (Fig. 5B). In the northern part of the Triassic structure, the
Tahent and Jebel Tiour ellil reveal lows values of − 2 mGal Si Amor Bou Nab outcrop matches with a negative anom-
(Fig. 3A). aly. Southward, the Henchir el Herainia trough, formed by
Acta Geophysica
 Acta Geophysica
◂Fig. 3  A Bouguer anomaly map of the Bazina area; data corrections
were applied using the 1967 G0 formula and a density of 2.40 g/
cm3. B Regional anomaly calculated using the Gaussian filter to the
Bouguer anomaly
Mio-Pliocene lacustrine limestones interspersed by Triassic
intrusion, reveals an E-oriented negative anomaly (Fig. 5A).
The residual anomaly map also highlights N–S features. To
the north, the Si Abdallah el Rhereib structure reveals a posi-
tive anomaly that coincides with upper Cretaceous limestones
to its southern part (Fig. 5B). To the east, Jebel Soudia struc-
ture that exposes the upper Cretaceous limestones is marked
by an N-oriented positive anomaly. This N–S direction con-
sists of three anomalies, one positive and two negative, in the
western part of the Bazina structure (Fig. 5B). The positive
anomaly corresponds to Sfaiet Kef Zara structure that exposes
upper Cretaceous limestones and the marl–limestone alterna-
tions of Paleocene age (Fig. 5B). The first negative anomaly
coincides with Oued Bou Djebia formed by late Eocene–Oli-
gocene marly clays. The second negative anomaly corre-
sponds to Henchir Mettarheni trough (Fig. 5A), marked by
few Triassic exposures distributed in the Quaternary deposit.
Source edge detection
In order to set up the structural discontinuities and their
subsurface extend, the horizontal gradient magnitude
(HGM) technique was applied to the gravity measurements
(Fig. 6A). Location of structural discontinuities is indicated
by the maximum amplitudes signal (Fig. 6B).
The HGM map exhibits a predominant NE–SW direction
around the Bazina region. The highlighted lineaments are
mainly associated with NE–SW structures (Fig. 6B). North-
ward, the Oued el Bouazine trough is delimited by the L10
lineament. To the west, the Kef Zara structure is separated
from Jebel Tabouna by the L13 lineament. Further to the
south, the Dir Bou Arrouje structure is bounded by the L19
lineament to its southeastern part (Fig. 6B). The L20 NE-
oriented lineament coincides with the Oued el Hadj trough.
In the southern part of the study area, the Triassic outcrops
seem linked to the L21 regional lineament, which continued
to the NE separating Henchir el Harch and Henchir el Borj
(Fig. 6B). The Jebel Grembil and Jebel el Hara structures are
associated with the L23 and L24 NE-oriented lineaments.
The E–W direction is well highlighted in the Bazina
region. The L2 lineament extends from the western edge
of the Ragbet el Mnitah structure to its eastern part. The
L4 passes through the northern edge of the Sfaiet Kef Zara
structure, between the Paleocene clays southward and the
Oligocene marl–limestone alternations northward. To the
east, L4 separates SfaietZitounstructure from Jebel Fernane
(Fig. 6B). Toward the north, the Oued el Bouazine trough is
set up with the Kef Maksour structure by the L7 lineament
(Fig. 6A). The northern limit of Triassic outcrops is marked
by the elongation of L8 E–W lineament (Fig. 6B). To its
western part, L8 separates the Si Amor Bounab syncline
southward from Kef Maksour northward. To the eastern
part, L8 crosses the northern edge of the Jebel BouTouil
structure (Fig. 6A, B).
Further north, the L9 lineament separates Jebel Azzag
structure from the Oued el Bouazine trough. To the SW
part of the Bazina region, the Jebel Tabouna is bounded by
the L15 lineament trending E–W (Fig. 6B). This lineament
passes through the southern boundary of the Triassic
outcrops of the Bazina structure; it deviates from NE–SW
to its eastern end. To the south of the region, the Henchir
Bou Touil structure is separated from Ragoubet el Alia by
L16, which separates Ksar Chenane structure from Bir Bou
Garbel to the east (Fig. 6B). To the southern part of the study
region, L18 limits the southern flank of Jebel el Galea. It
extends eastward to the south of Dir Bou Arrouje. To the
SE, the Jebel Anntra structure is bounded by the L25 E–W
lineament (Fig. 6B).
The HGM map also shows the presence of the N–S
lineaments (Fig. 6B). The L3 separates the Ragbet el
Mnitah structure from Oued Bou Djebia. The Oued
Bou Djebia low zone is crossed by the L5 lineament;
its eastern flank is bounded by the L6 N-oriented linea-
ment (Fig. 6B). To the southwest of the Bazina area, L17
separates the Jebel el Galea structure from Kef el Beida.
To the southern part, the lineament L26 limits the Aein
ettout structure on the western flank and passes on the
western flank of Jebel Soudia. Further north, the L26
delimits the eastern flanks of Jebel el Hefira and Jebel
Ballouta structures (Fig. 6B).
The NW–SE direction is represented by the L1 linea-
ment, which is associated to Si Otsmane el Haddad trough to
Ragbet el Mnitah structure (Fig. 6B). To the NE part of the
study area, L11separates Aein Rhanana structure from Bir
el Kelb. The northern flank of the Jebel Tabouna structure
is separated from the Triassic outcrops of Bazina by the L14
NW–SE lineament (Fig. 6B).
Euler deconvolution
In this work, Euler solutions are plotted using resolution
window 8 km*8 km, tolerance depth 10% and structural
index SI = 0 (Fig. 6). A structural index can take many val-
ues ranging from 0 to 3 and correspondent to whole numbers
for some simple structures. Thus, several authors consider
that an N = 1 is the best index suited for thin veins, dykes
and faults with low vertical throw. An N = 0 index is used
for faults and an index of N = 0.5 for intermediate cases.
The success of the application of these treatments has been
demonstrated by numerous studies (Archibald and Bochetti.
 Acta Geophysica

Fig. 4  Radially averaged power spectrum of the Bouguer anomaly map of the Bazina study area. Deep and shallow sources components were
estimated based on linear segments of the energy decay curve

1999; Everaerts and Mansy 2001; Khattach et al. 2004; series exposed northeast and south of the Bazina structure
Chennouf et al. 2007; El Gout et al. 2010). are delimited by NE–SW lineaments (Fig. 7), testifying
Euler solutions in the study area range from 0 to 4000 m; their tectonic setting as related to deep-seated faults. The
the majority are limited to 2000 m (Fig. 7). The Bazina Tri- outcrops of Sfaiet Zitoun, Sfaiet kef Zara and Kef Maksour
assic structure is bounded by two E–W lineaments. Triassic reveal circular geometries, suggesting the folded structures.
To the NW the Euler solutions reveal the existence of N–S
Table 1  Average density for Mesozoic and Cenozoic deposits in the lineaments (Fig. 7). A lineament separates the structures of
Bazina area Si Otsmane el Hadda and Ragoubet el Mnitah, from Jebel
Lithostratigraphic series Density (g/cm3) Fernane. The Abdallah el Rherib structure Si is delimited
to its western flank by an N–S lineament. To the southern
Quaternary 2.1
part, the structures of Henchir el Jebabra, Dir Bou Arrouje,
Oligocene 2.25
Henchir el Ouarda and Jebel Tahent are bordered by NE–SW
Eocene 2.35
lineaments (Fig. 7).
Paleocene 2.3
Campanian–Maastrichtian 2.35
Gravity inversion and forward modeling
Turonian–Campanian 2.4
Cenomanian 2.5
The 3D inversion modeling (e.g., Li and Oldenburg 1996,
Early cretaceous 2.45
1998; Speranza and Chiappini 2002; Paoletti et al. 2014;
Jurassic 2.6
Tschirhart and Morris 2014; Dressel et al. 2018; Fedi et al.
Triassic 2.27
Acta Geophysica

Fig. 5  Residual anomaly (A) of the Bazina structure over the field geological map (B), displaying the gravity response of the exposed geological structures
 Acta Geophysica

Fig. 6  (A) Horizontal gradient magnitude (HGM) the Bazina area. (B) Maxima of HGM calculated from the upward-continued gravity measurements
Acta Geophysica
2018; Minelli et al. 2018; Mancinelli et al. 2015, 2019,
2020; Sobh et al. 2019) shows the contrast of density related
to geological bodies in the Bazina region (Fig. 8B). The
presented density contrast models show the geometry and
structural setting of the deep Triassic bodies. The proposed
inversion and forward modeling sections are mainly chosen
across Bazina Triassic structure and its surroundings. The
models were correlated and calibrated with subsurface and
field data (Fig. 8B). Geological units were defined and sub-
divided according to lithological formations. The defined
density values presented in Table 1 were estimated by the
National Office of Mines of Tunisia and in some previous
works carried out in northern Tunisia (e.g., Benassi et al.
2006; Ayed-Khaled et al. 2015).
Central part of the Bazina structure (section M1)
The M1 section oriented NW–SE and of 19 km length
highlights the deep-seated geometry and faulting of the
Bazina structure (Fig. 5B). To the NW, the Dir Si Mes-
saoud trough, marked by upper Eocene–Oligocene series,
shows deep negative anomaly (Fig. 9A). The Si Abdalla
Ben Saiden structure, of Eocene deposits, reveals a shal-
low positive anomaly. The Si Abdalla el Rherid structure,
which is formed by Paleocene clays, is associated with a
shallow positive anomaly (Fig. 9A). Further south, Jebel
Mehachem structure, marked by upper Cretaceous lime-
stone bars, divulges a deep positive anomaly. In the center
of the section, the Si Amor Bou Nab structure, which
coincides with the Triassic facies, reveals a deep nega-
tive anomaly (Fig. 9A). The Si Bou Bsila structure cor-
responds to a deep positive anomaly that escapes beneath
Triassic outcrops. To the SE, the chaebet es Souda trough
matches with deep negative anomaly, testifying Triassic
intrusion. The Henchir es Souadguir structure, which con-
stitutes the Miocene–Pliocene lacustrine limestone bars,
is marked by a deep positive anomaly (Fig. 9A). Further
south, the Jebel Tiour ellil structure reveals a deep nega-
tive gravity anomaly that should be considered directly
related to the gravity response of Cretaceous series.
The M1 gravity model exhibits a Triassic rising in
Si Amor Bounab structure toward the south to the Si
BouBsila structure (Fig. 9B). The structures of Chaebet
es Souda and Henchir es Souadguir are occupied by the
Triassic facies through deep tectonic faults (Fig. 9B).
Due to its low density (2.27 g/cm 3), the Triassic body
is represented by negative gravity anomalies (Fig. 9B).
Further north, the Dir Si Messaoud structure exposes the
Numidian facies of a density about 2.25 g/cm 3, show-
ing negative gravity response (Fig. 9B). The structures,
occupied by the Paleocene and Cretaceous series, reveal
positive gravity responses corresponding to high density
values of 2.3–2.5 g/cm3. Jurassic dolomitic limestones are
characterized by high values of density about 2.6 g/cm3
at significant depths (Fig. 9B).
The M1 model is marked by the presence of deep tectonic
features. These geological contacts have contributed to the
migration of Triassic evaporites to the surface (Fig. 9B). The
gravity modeling across the Si Bou Bsila structure highlights
Triassic evaporite outpouring to the SE above the Paleocene
deposits (Fig. 9B). This phenomenon should testify to the
lateral displacement of salt materials during the Eocene Pyr-
enean compressive deformations.
Eastern part of the Bazina structure (sectionM2)
The M2 section of NW–SE orientation and of 16 km
length was chosen close to the intersection of the major
faults (Fig. 5B). To the NW, the Jebel ez Zeboudj struc-
ture, consisting of Eocene–Oligocene series, displays a
deep source positive anomaly (Fig. 10A). The Oued el
Bouazine trough, of Paleocene outcropping strata, reveals
a deep source negative anomaly (Fig. 10A). The Kef Mak-
sour structure, consisted of Campanian limestones, shows
a deep positive anomaly. In the center of M2 modeling
section, the Jebel in Nadour and Aein Berriche struc-
tures, consisting of evaporitic facies, reveal a deep nega-
tive anomaly (Fig. 10A). Further south, the Henchir el
Harch structure is marked by a deep positive anomaly
highlighting extent of the Campanian limestone bars.
Henchir el Borj trough filled by Paleocene clays reveals
a local negative anomaly (Fig. 10A). To the SE end, the
M2 inversion section crosses the Jebel Anntra structure,
which corresponds to an anticline consisting of Campa-
nian–Maastrichtian limestone bars.
The M2 gravity model highlights a diapiric structure in
Jebel in Nadour and Aien Berrich (Fig. 10B). The Triassic
facies of density about 2.27 g/cm3 reflects a negative anom-
aly of − 1 mGal compared to the neighboring Mesozoic and
Cenozoic strata whose density varies from 2.35 to 2.5 g/cm3.
In significant depths, the density of Jurassic series is 2.6 g/
cm3 (Fig. 10B). The M2 model shows the existence of deep
faults, which exceed all the post-Triassic series (Fig. 10B).
Far from the Bazina structure (sectionM3)
The M3 section, of 13 km length, crosses the NE part of the
Bazina region (Fig. 5B). To the NW, the Si Ayed structure
is occupied by Campanian–Maastrichtian limestones reflect-
ing a deep positive anomaly source (Fig. 11A). The Si Bou
Djema structure, which is characterized by Triassic facies,
constitutes a negative anomaly. The Douar el Arab and
Jebel el Rhorfa structures show a superficial positive gravity
response (Fig. 11A). The Jebel Bou Touil anticline, occupied
by limestones strata of the Abiod Formation, reflects a deep

Fig. 7  Euler solutions (SI = 0), over the digital terrain model map of the Bazina study area
positive anomaly. To the SE section, the Oued Bou Abed and
Oued Joumine troughs are characterized by a deep anomaly
(Fig. 11A). Oued Joumine trough is filled by the Quaternary
deposit with exposures of Triassic facies.
The M3 model highlights Triassic ascension through the
inherited ancient faults (Fig. 11B). The Si Bou Djema and
Oued Joumine structures are marked by very small Trias-
sic intrusions. On both sides of this body, the anticlines are
occupied by upper Cretaceous series of density about 2.35 g/
cm3 over the lower Cretaceous series of density ranging
from 2.4 to 2.5 g/cm3(Fig. 11B).
Discussion
The application of several algorithms to gravity field data in
the Bazina region leads to a detailed structuring model. The
obtained results are a useful scientific complement to the
Acta Geophysica
previous studies. Their correlation with geological outcrops
helps us to better comprehend the subsurface geometry and
faulting of structures in Bazina region (Figs. 12 and 13).
Three main distinct hypotheses were proposed for the
placement and geometry of the Triassic evaporite bodies in
the Bazina: (i) Triassic sheet sole thrust under the Aouana
structure (Caire et al. 1971); (ii) uprooted blade evaporite
layer, inter-stratified in the marly series of the Paleocene
Biely et al. 1971, Biely et al. 1974; Rouvier 1985); and (iii)
Triassic mass of as a rooted diapir (e.g., Solignac 1923;
Kujawski 1969; Crampon 1971; De Jong 1975; Batik 1976;
Perthuisot 1978; Ben Mehrez et al. 2009). Recently, Mar-
zougui et al. (2015) have showed that Bazina rooted diapir
is associated with effusion toward the NW.
The current structural setting of the Bazina area is char-
acterized by fault, folds and Triassic bodies oriented E–W
such as Si Amor Bou Nab, Si Bou Bsila and NE–SW, e.g., El
Blelma, Aein Rhanana, Jebel Gaifa (Fig. 12). Furthermore,
Acta Geophysica

Fig. 8  3D inversion cube calculated by 3D VOXI using Cartesian mesh method, displaying the density contrast related to the geological struc-
tures

Fig. 9  (A) 2D inversion section (M1). (B) NW– oriented 2D gravity modeling across the central part of the Bazina structure, showing a diapiric
structure with southward outpouring of Triassic evaporites
many strike–slip faults oriented E–W, N–S and NW–SE were
underlined. The highlighted structuring results from succes-
sive tectonic events, extensional to transtensional during
Mesozoic times and mainly compressional to transpressional
at the end of Cretaceous and Neogene–Quaternary periods
(Fig. 13). Indeed, the compressive tectonic phases mostly
induced folding of E–W and NE–SW inherited structures, as
well as strike–slip reactivation of N–S, NW–SE, E–W and
NE–SW preexisting faults.
Acta Geophysica
During the Mesozoic period, the Triassic ascents induced
the migration and the inversion of the basin structure accord-
ing to transtensional movements underlined by the increase
in sediment filling (Fig. 13). The lithological characteristics
of the Triassic allow its intrusion and its rise through the
intersections of the deep faults (Fig. 13).
During the end Cretaceous and Cenozoic dominant
inversions, the remobilization of Triassic salt accentuated
the uplifting phenomena. Geological data and gravity
Acta Geophysica

Fig. 10   (A) 2D inversion section (M2). (B) NW– oriented 2D gravity modeling across the eastern part of the Bazina structure, showing a dia-
piric structure with northward and southward overturns of Triassic evaporites

modeling show reductions of thicknesses and hiatuses of
the Cretaceous and Cenozoic sedimentary deposits, as well
as the presence of progressive thinning, at the flanks of the
Triassic evaporate diapirs and wrinkles, testifying contin-
ued ascension related to halokinesis phenomena (Fig. 13).
Moreover, the Triassic salt facies forms a level of tectonic
detachment below the Mesozoic strata and corresponds to
the main zones of faulting and thrusting during the subse-
quent displacements (Figs. 12 and 13).
The extensional/contractional rejuvenation of inherited
normal and strike–slip faults induced Triassic evaporite
intrusions and, therefore, the formation of diapirs and salt
wrinkles (Figs. 12 and 13). The new results do not sup-
port the hypothesis of the sole thrust blocks for the main
 Acta Geophysica

Fig. 11  (A) 2D inversion section (M3). (B) NW– oriented 2D gravity modeling east of the Bazina structure, highlighting piercing diapir struc-
ture, and salt wrinkles
Acta Geophysica
Fig. 12  (A) Structural setting showing main field, geophysical features and structures in the Bazina area. (B) Block diagrams showing geometry
and faulting of Triassic bodies and associated structures
Triassic structures of the Bazina region. Rather, they show
their deeply rooted position. The influence of the Triassic
halokinetic movements on sedimentation is expressed in the
Bazina region by significant lateral variations in thicknesses.
Moreover, the Triassic evaporite ascensions accentuated
subsidence in the depocenters and elevations of the borders
to the sub-basins. The Si Bou Bsila structure reveals Triassic
evaporite outpouring to the SE above the Paleocene deposits
(Figs. 9, 12 and 13). This discovery brings new interpreta-
tions concerning the structural framework of the Triassic
diapir and their major outpouring that should be induced by
the Eocene Pyrenean compression tectonic phase.
Conclusions
Deep geometry and structuring of Triassic evaporite bodies
and Mesozoic–Cenozoic adjacent layers, in the Bazina struc-
ture, were highlighted based on the application of several
algorithms for horizontal gradient magnitude (HGM), Euler
deconvolution, inversion and 2D forward modeling on the
gravity measurements. The integration of different data and
results shows the structural relationship between the surface
geological outcrops and subsurface structures.
The obtained results from the horizontal gradient
magnitude technique and the Euler deconvolution highlight
lineaments depth of more than 1000 m. The dominant
NE–SW and E–W directions have controlled geodynamic
evolution of the study area. They have induced tilting,
filling and inversion of sub-basins related to extensional/
transtensional movements during Mesozoic times, and
subsequent predominant compressional/transpressional at
the end of Cretaceous and Neogene–Quaternary periods.
The main contractional tectonic events have mainly induced
folding of E–W and NE–SW inherited structures, as well as
the strike–slip reactivation along N–S, NW–SE, E–W and
NE–SW inherited faults.
The most of the structures constitute deep anomalous
sources with some superficial intercalation. The separation
of sources of the anomalies present the existence of several
geological contacts. Several folded structures are associated
with Triassic exposures. The evaporite rising is related to the
location and movements along deep inherited master faults
oriented NE–SW and E–W. These features seem to be deeply
rooted in the Cretaceous layers. The inversion and forward
gravity modeling highlight piercing diapiric structures and
 Acta Geophysica

Fig. 13  Geological sections

restored from gravity models
across the Bazina structure,
showing the relationship
between inherited faults, Trias-
sic bodies and sedimentary
fillings during extensional and
contractional tectonic events.
The restored sections highlight
piercing diapirs structures,
and salt wrinkles. The Bazina
structure corresponds to a
deep-rooted diapir marked by
southward evaporite lateral
outpouring above Paleocene
deposits. (A) Mesozoic rifting
and extensions; (B) Eocene
Pyrenean compression phase;
(C) Late Miocene-Quaternary
Atlassic compressions; (D) Tri-
assic evaporite exposures and
associated faults and thrusts
Acta Geophysica
salt wrinkles. The diapiric structures, presenting nega-
tive gravity anomaly, are bounded by deep features affect-
ing post-Triassic series. Furthermore, the Bazina Triassic
exposure reveals evaporite outpouring to the SE above the
Paleocene deposits related to the Eocene Pyrenean compres-
sional tectonics.
Regional tectonic movements, basin subsiding and
sediment filling have contributed to Triassic evaporite
rising. The halokinetic movement started in the Jurassic
period continued with the Cretaceous, where sedimentation
distribution and position of the associated structures were
controlled by extensional deformations. The deep faults
reactivation, during Cenozoic deposition, facilitated
ascension of the Triassic facies at the intersection of major
faults.
Acknowledgements The authors are grateful to Center of Research
and Water Technologies (CERTE) for scientific logistic help and the
National Office of Mines (ONM) for providing gravity data.
Funding No funding was received for conducting this study. All
authors certify that they have no affiliations with or involvement in
any organization or entity with any financial interest or non-financial
interest in the subject matter or materials discussed in this manuscript.
Declarations
Conflict of interest The authors have no competing interests to declare
that are relevant to the content of this article.
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