Continental transform margins

We present and discuss three main stages that successively control the sedimentary, tectonic and crustal evolution along continental margin segments which result chiefly from transform rifting between two parting continents. During an intracontinental stage, the future margin area is submitted to specific thermal and wrench tectonic activities and to a dominantly clastic sedimentation. In a second stage, and active transform contact between continental crust and a newly created oceanic crust, induces a sharp transition between ocean and continent crusts, as well as the creation of a very steep and linear slope. finally, the margin is submitted to a more standard cooling subsidence and accompanying sedimentation. (C) Academie des sciences/Elseveir, Paris.