1. INTRODUCTION 1.1.MINERAL SYSTEMS DEFINITION Mineral systems are defined as the integrated set of geological factors that control the generation, transport, concentration, and preservation of mineral deposits through geological time (Wyborn et al., 1994). This concept emphasizes processes rather than deposit typology, focusing on the source of metals and fluids, the mechanisms enabling their mobilization and transport, the physicochemical conditions that allow accumulation, and the tectonic conditions that ensure preservation. For practical application in regional exploration, this study adopts the critical mineral system elements proposed by McCuaig & Hronsky (2014), which provide a scalable and process-oriented framework for targeting. These elements include (Figure 1.): Fertility (F): The presence of a metal- and fluid-producing source capable of generating mineralizing systems. In porphyry–skarn environments, fertility is commonly associated with specific magmatic suites and their physicochemical characteristics. Geodynamics (G): The large-scale tectonic conditions that trigger and sustain mineralizing processes, including convergent margin evolution, crustal thickening, and lithospheric architecture. Architecture (A): The crustal-scale structural configuration that facilitates fluid migration and focuses mineralizing systems into trap sites. This includes major fault systems, lithological contrasts, and structural intersections. Preservation (P): Post-mineralization tectonic and erosional processes that maintain the integrity and exposure of mineral systems. Figure 1 - Critical elements of a mineral system. Adapted from McCuaig & Hronsky (2014). At the regional scale addressed in this study, Fertility, Geodynamics, and Architecture constitute the primary evaluative dimensions. Preservation is considered implicitly through regional tectonic stability and exposure conditions but is not modeled as an independent predictor due to scale constraints.
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