Chaitenia is a distinct terrane in southern Chile. Rocks of Chaitenia represents an ancient island arc that existed next to Patagonia which became eventually accreted to it.[ After merging into Patagonia, accretionary complexes developed west of it, meaning Chaitenia constituted a backstop.][ Chaitenia is not thought to extend beyond the Huincul Fault to the north, beyond which lies the Chilenia terrane.][
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