Studies of the Central Mascarene Ridge relief

Abstract

During geomorphological studies at the Mascarene Ridge a submarine device «Sever-3» has been used for the first time. The observation from the device established the central part of the ridge being built of limestones at least 1650 meters thick. Folded and fault distortions pronounced in sea floor topography were identified at saddles, which are areas of shear deformations due to transform fault zones. Some shoals are proved to be submerged atolls. A conclusion is drawn at the Central Mascarene Ridge rise at the end of Paleogene which changed into sinking at the end of Neogene.