Abstract. In this study, we apply the double-difference tomography method to investigate the detailed 3-D structure within and around the Nový Kostel seismic zone, an area in the Czech Republic known for frequent occurrences of earthquake swarms. We use data from the extensively analyzed 2008 swarm, which has known focal mechanisms, principal faults, tectonic stress, source migration and other basic characteristics. We selected about 500 microearthquakes recorded at 22 local seismic stations of the West Bohemia Network (WEBNET). Applying double-difference tomography, combined with Weighted Average Model post-processing to correct for parameter dependence effects, we produce and interpret 3-D models of the Vp-to-Vs ratio (Vp/Vs) in and around the focal zone. The modeled Vp-to-Vs ratio shows several distinct structures, namely an area of high Vp-to-Vs ratio correlating with the microearthquakes, and a layer of low values directly above it. These structures may reflect changes in lithology and/or fluid concentration. The overlaying low Vp-to-Vs ratio layer coincides with high density metamorphic unit associated with the Fichtelgebirge (Smrčiny) granitic intrusion. It is possible that the base of the layer acts as a fluid trap, resulting in the observed periodic swarms.
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