Mafic dykes from Øksfjord, Seiland Igneous Province, northern Norway: geochemistry and palaeotectonic significance

Abstract Mafic dykes from the Øksfjord-Langfjord area were intruded at different stages during the prolonged tectonomagmatic evolution of the Seiland Igneous Province. Field relations, petrography and geochemistry indicate the presence of four dyke generations with alkali basalt composition and one generation of alkaline lamprophyres. The entire dyke suite has geochemical signatures consistent with formation in a within-plate geotectonic environment. Trace elements indicate that the alkali basalt dykes have OIB (ocean island basalt) affinities and we suggest a sublithospheric mantle source. The data support a rift-related origin for the Seiland Igneous Province. Longevity of magmatism in the Seiland Igneous Province (300 m.y.) is difficult to explain within a conventional mantle plume framework. Instead, it is proposed that the intermittent magmatism in the province was predominantly permissive and controlled by lithosphere structure.