The myth of the De Geer Zone: a change of paradigm for the opening of the Fram Strait

The present results suggest that the De Geer Zone does not exist and that related fault complexes (e.g., Hornsund Fault Complex) did not accommodate any strike-slip movement. In addition, the formation of major NW-SE-striking transform faults in the Fram Strait was controlled by late Neoproterozoic Timanian thrust systems. The present results call for major revisions of all current plate tectonics models for the opening of the Fram Strait and Arctic tectonics in the Cenozoic and for critical reviews of major fault zones inferred from indirect observations.