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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

GCAGS Transactions

Abstract


Gulf Coast Association of Geological Societies Transactions
Vol. 45 (1995), Pages 457-465

Sequence Stratigraphy of Pleistocene Sediments, Northwestern Green Canyon, Gulf of Mexico

Alonso F. Navarro, Paul Weimer

ABSTRACT

A sequence stratigraphic study of Pleistocene sediments in the northwestern portion of the Green Canyon Area has identified five depositional sequences: 1.1-0.8, 0.8-0.7, 0.7-0.5, 0.5-0.4, and 0.4-0.3 Ma. Detailed seismic and geologic facies maps were constructed for each of these sequences. The data base for this study comprises 1420 km (882 miles) of multifold seismic, petrophysical information from 20 wells and 23 biostratigraphic reports. The area is characterized by several large mini-basins, separated by complex salt bodies and minor faults. The depositional settings are structurally controlled by these salt bodies and normal faults. Fields/discoveries in the area are in Green Canyon 18, and in the Mahogany sub-salt discovery (Ship Shoal 349).

Paleoecology indicates that the sequences were deposited in water depths ranging from lower slope to middle shelf. Bathyal turbidite systems represent most of sediments. Prominent basin-floor fan deposits are present only in sequences 1.1-0.8 Ma and 0.8-0.7 Ma in the southeastern portion of the area. All of the sequences consist primarily of channel-levee systems and overbank deposits (slope fan facies). Abrupt facies changes within these deposits are common. Well logs indicate that most of the area is mud-dominated, with sands primarily occurring in channel-fill facies. Extensive slides are also present in these slope fan facies. In the northern part of the area, the younger sequences (0.7 Ma and younger) also contain sediments deposited in prodelta/delta environments (prograding complex/HST). Relatively thick TST are present and stacked along the downthrown sides of faults.


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