Dear Prof. Liu,
I have evaluated the manuscript titled “Supra-subduction zone ophiolite from the Great Xing’an Range, NE China: geochemistry, zircon geochronology and implications for ophiolite formation in a back-arc setting" submitted by Dr. Shi and co-authors. The location and timing of collision and amalgamation between Erguna block and Xing’an block are key topics in understanding the tectonic and geodynamic history of the region. The authors discovered new ophiolites outcrops in the southwest of the Xinlin-Toudaoqiao collision-collage zone. They performed detailed field investigation, geochronologic and geochemical analysis and proposed a back-arc basin developed until early Carboniferous. Their data and views can put more lights on the geodynamic evolution of this region. I recommend that minor revision is required before its acceptance.

My only suggestion is that, if possible, more evidence should be provided to confirm the mafic rocks represent the ophiolitic fragments. Three outcrops reported show no ultramafic rocks which are critical to identification on ophiolites, though peridotites are observed as structural lens in metadiabase at the Wunuer ophiolite section. The contact relationship between mafic rocks and cherts are interbedded (Fig. 2). Are there any classic ophiolites section with similar features?

Dear Prof.Liu, I am satisfied with the revision made by the authors. I recommend acceptance of the manuscript in the form of this version.