Morphotectonic evolution of the Jebel Bou Naceur in the South Middle Atlas Fault Zone (Morocco)

In eastern Morocco, fault-related folds develop above the South Middle Atlas fault that separates the J. Bou Naceur ‘pop-up’ structure and the Missour Basin, filled with alluvial sediments. Using a combination of surfaces, field observations and digital topographic information, we have investigated several geomorphic criteria and geometry of depositional surfaces governed by the reliefʹs growth. The propagation of the deformation is recorded by warped segmented fans that moved southeastward and well-preserved geomorphological features of tectonic origin. Uplift of the anticline hinges and acceleration of valley incision since the Late Pliocene are considered a consequence of the ongoing NW–SE convergence between Africa and Eurasia. A scenario of morphotectonic evolution of this active mountain front is proposed.