Layered Seismic Anisotropy and Tectonics of the Anatolian Plate

Abstract Anatolian tectonics are associated with slab retreat in the west and gravitational potential energy and continental collision in the east, leading to westward motion of Anatolia relative to Eurasia, partially accommodated on the North and East Anatolian transform faults. We construct a three‐layer, azimuthal seismic anisotropy model using new Rayleigh wave measurements and compare results against geodetic strain‐rates and new receiver function analysis for the crust, as well as new and existing shear wave splitting for the mantle to link surface and deep dynamics. In the crust, anisotropy is primarily controlled by recent tectonics, especially along major fault zones. In the lithospheric mantle, anisotropy reflects ongoing tectonic deformation in western Anatolia, whereas eastern Anatolia mainly preserves prior deformation signatures. In the asthenosphere, anisotropy reflects mantle convection, including the effects of Hellenic slab retreat. Our model provides new constraints on lithospheric deformation and geodynamics in the Eastern Mediterranean.