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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

AAPG Bulletin

Abstract


Volume: 33 (1949)

Issue: 12. (December)

First Page: 2067

Last Page: 2067

Title: Geosynclinal Sedimentation in Central Gulf Region of United States: ABSTRACT

Author(s): Grover E. Murray

Article Type: Meeting abstract

Abstract:

More than 30,000 feet of Mesozoic and Cenozoic sediments are present in the central Gulf region of southern United States. They constitute a great sedimentary complex (Gulf Coast geosyncline) composed of Previous HitmarineNext Hit and deltaic deposits. The deltaic sediments occur as overlapping ladle-shaped and irregularly lenticular masses with areas of maximum accumulation (depocenters) in general parallel with the coast line. Individual deltaic masses coalesce to form elongate, geosynclinal deltaic complexes. Thin Previous HitmarineNext Hit strata are present between the deltaic depocenters; thick Previous HitmarineNext Hit sediments occur on the seaward edges of the deltaic masses. Landward, currently updip, both the Previous HitmarineNext Hit and deltaic units are replaced by marginal and fluviatile deposits; seaward, the Previous HitmarineNext Hit facies are deepe -water and the deltaic facies are more Previous HitmarineNext Hit.

Three major depositional stages are represented: a lower, marginal-deltaic stage; a middle, Previous HitmarineTop stage; and an upper, marginal deltaic stage. These primary stages coincide with major fluctuations of sea-level. Minor depositional stages and sea-level fluctuations complicate the sedimentary history of the area.

Axes of maximum deposition shifted from time to time in position and alignment and progressed generally in a seaward direction. Major interruptions of the seaward progression occurred in the Cretaceous and Tertiary. The geographic positions and stratigraphic thicknesses of these depositional axes are shown on maps and cross sections.

The stratigraphic and sedimentary history of the area, along with Recent geologic events, indicate that subsidence has been a major factor in creating a linear, arcuate geosyncline in the Gulf Coastal Plain of the United States.

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Copyright 1997 American Association of Petroleum Geologists