Mud volcanism as an indicator of late to neopleistocene-holocene activity of the Chilik-Kemin fault, Yli depression, Northern Tien Shan

It is revealed that the Altyn-Emel mud volcanic field (43°52′56″ N, 79°06′31″ E) in the Yli depression (Dzharkent trough) is structurally linked to the northeastern end of the Chilik-Kemin deep fault. The mud volcano is related to hydrocarbon-rich gases (including methane) and pressure artesian mineralized thermal waters, which uplifted to the surface along the fault zone. It is suggested that the earthquakes with M≤ 5 related both to the Chilik-Kemin fault and other seismic generating structures intensified the mud volcanic activity. In some cases, the eruptions were accompanied by the short-lived ignition of hydrocarbon gases and formation of the Na-rich paralavas. The mud volcanism of the Altyn-Emel field has been manifested during the last 15–20 k.a., and, consequently, the northeastern part of the Chilik-Kemin fault is an active structure.