Transtension

As such, transtensional regions are characterised by both extensional structures (normal faults, grabens) and wrench structures (strike-slip faults).

In general, many tectonic regimes that were previously defined as simple strike-slip shear zones are actually transtensional.

End member structures include pure strike-slip faults and purely extensional ("normal") dip-slip faults.

Releasing bends are transtensional structures that form where the orientation of a strike-slip fault becomes oblique to the regional slip vector causing local extension (such as a right stepping bend on a right-lateral fault).

Releasing bends often form negative flower structures or pull-apart basins.