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Geochemical characteristics of the Middle Permian mudstones from the Longge Formation in the Jiaomuri area, central uplift zone of Qiangtang Basin have been analysed to constrain their provenance, tectonic setting, depositional redox condition and palaeoclimate. Based on the geochemical parameters like CIA, PIA, ICV values and Th/U, K/Rb ratios indicate that the source rocks were affected by low degree weathering conditions. The U/Th, V/Cr, Ni/Co, V/Sc ratios and Uau, C-values of samples suggest that the mudstones were formed in an oxic environment, with arid palaeoclimate. Bulk-rock geochemistry analysis indicates that they are mainly arkose and subarkose, derived from dominantly andesitic rocks, probably a mixing of felsic and mafic provenance. The CIA, PIA and ICV values of these samples suggest that the Longge mudstones are compositionally immature and related to moderate weathering. The tectonic discrimination diagrams, as well as critical trace and REE characteristic parameters imply an oceanic arc or continental arc setting for the depositional basin of mudstones from the Longge Formation, probably back-arc basin. This study supports an occurrence of archipelagic oceanic basins in the Jiaomuri area in the Middle Permian, which provides evidence for the research of the Longmu Co-Shuanghu-Lancangjiang Suture. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]