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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

AAPG Bulletin

Abstract


Volume: 55 (1971)

Issue: 2. (February)

First Page: 337

Last Page: 338

Title: Late Pleistocene-Holocene Sedimentation History of Cape Kennedy Inner Continental Shelf: ABSTRACT

Author(s): Michael E. Field, Edward P. Meisburger, David B. Duane

Article Type: Meeting abstract

Abstract:

Lithologic analyses of 91 cores averaging 10 ft in length, radiocarbon dates of in situ peat deposits from the shelf, and interpretation of 360 mi of high-resolution continuous seismic profiling indicate a complex sedimentation history for the Cape Kennedy inner continental shelf.

Two prominent and continuous acoustical horizons in the upper subbottom can be traced throughout the 200 sq mi grid studied. The lower reflector lies at -60 to -110 ft MLW and is characterized by an irregular surface probably resulting from erosive processes during long-term subaerial exposure. The upper horizon lies at depth of -40 to -90 ft MLW and generally 2-15 ft below the existing bottom. This horizon is relatively smooth and dips seaward at a low angle. Internal reflectors between the upper and lower horizons suggest prograding beds. Cores penetrating the upper reflector contain subaerially cemented sands and recrystallized shells.

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Subsurface sediments in the Cape Kennedy area are widely diversified in sorting, texture, composition, and macrofauna. Major lithologic types are commonly correlative between cores; however, individual cores commonly contain several distinct changes in sediment type. Lithologic characteristics and thickness of strata suggest rapid changes of depositional environment; marsh, lagoon, littoral, and open-shelf facies are represented. Most of the sediments studied were produced by bottom erosion of Pleistocene surfaces and by shoreward migration and mixing of an outer-shelf oolitic sand with an inner-shelf quartzose-molluscan sand during the Holocene transgression.

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