PRINCIPLES OF DRAINAGE-BASIN ANALYSIS FROM MULTISOURCE DATA - APPLICATION TO THE STRUCTURAL-ANALYSIS OF THE ZAIRE BASIN

Classifications which attempt to combine descriptive and genetic aspects of types of drainage basins must take into account the application of new techniques (satellite imagery; high-precision topographic maps and digital terrain models). In addition, the use of new concepts such as neotectonics and drainage basin history will lead to a reassessment of classification schemes. After a review of current classifications, we propose a genetic scheme that is based on the development of drainage networks and which includes integration of local and regional-scale perturbations. State-of-the-art methods of drainage basin analysis are applied to the Zaire Basin to provide new information on deep structures. The influence of basin and block tectonics is revealed in the context of major Late Proterozoic shear faults which have been rejuvenated up to the present day. This is demonstrated from an analysis of the drainage network in the light of geological and geophysical observations.