Exxon has conducted an integrated, multi-disciplinary study of sources, maturation, and migration pathways in the offshore Gulf of Mexico (GOM). We developed a geological framework from 2-D and 3-D seismic, identified and mapped potential source intervals, and delineated migration pathways to reservoirs and amplitude anomalies. Hydrocarbon compositions from over 2000 oils, 500 gases, and 1000 hydrocarbon-bearing sea bottom drop cores constrain source rock characteristics, such as organic matter type, depositional facies, and, to some extent, age. East of the Mississippi River Delta the complete stratigraphic section is seismically visible and wells have penetrated deep source intervals. To the west, correlative organic-rich rocks have been sampled onshore and from sheaths overlying salt diapirs offshore. Integration of these data with the regional geological framework provides a strong basis for hydrocarbon system interpretations.

Widespread oil and gas seepage in the GOM has allowed extension of hydrocarbon systems and maturity maps far beyond well control. Abundant seepage documents that the GOM slope is an actively migrating hydrocarbon system and provides a means of identifying major migration pathways. Improved understanding of regional hydrocarbon systems has provided new exploration methodologies and play concepts.

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