Comprehensive geophysical experiments were operated in Emeishan LIP, SW China.
Distinct features on the crustal nature and geometry of the Inner Zone were manifested.
A 15–20 km-thick mafic layer is detected at the base of the crust in the Inner Zone.
This mafic layer reflects the vertical crustal growth through magmatic underplating.
This study provides evidence for and characterizes a plume-modified crust in a LIP.