A conjugate strike-slip fault system within the extensional tectonics of Western Turkey

Three main shocks M-1, M-2 and M-3 (17 October 2005 at 05:45 UTC, M-w 5.4; 17 October at 09:46 UTC, M-w 5.8 and 20 October at 21:40 UTC, M-w 5.9) and their associated aftershocks within the Gulf of Sigacik, 50 km southwest of Izmir, Turkey were studied in detail. A temporary seismic network deployed during the activity allowed the hypocentre of M-3 and subsequent aftershocks to be determined with high accuracy. A relative relocation technique was used to improve the epicentres of M-1 and M-2. All three main shocks have strike-slip mechanisms which agree with the linear trends of the aftershock locations. Two distinct zones were illuminated by the aftershock locations. The zones contain clear echelon patterns with slightly different orientations from the trend of the aftershock distribution. M-2 and M-3 ruptured along of the eastern rupture zone which aligns N45 degrees E. However the strike direction of M-1 is not clearly identified. The alignment of the two rupture zones intersect at their southern terminus at an angle of 90 degrees. The fault zones form conjugate pair system and static triggering is considered as a probable mechanism for the sequential west to east occurrence of M-1, M-2 and M-3. This earthquake sequence provides seismological evidence for conjugate strike-slip faulting co-existing within a region dominated by north-south extension and well-developed east-west trending normal faults.