Deposition of the Ypresian Carbonates of Tunisia

R. T. J. Moody, G. G. Grant

The Ypresian Metlaoui Group of central Tunisia can be divided into six formations. Pelletoid phosphates of the Chouabine Formation are overlain by four laterally equivalent formations which record the transition from sabkha to deep marine deposition. This study concentrates on the nummulite-rich El Gueria Formation and proposes a model for the deposition of the extensive nummulitic grainstone--of proven reservoir potential--which characterize it. Detailed study of spectacular outcrops to the west of the city of Kairouan have revealed the importance of event deposition, probably related to storms, in the accumulation of these banks. Factors influencing the siting of these banks are also discussed.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91032©1988 Mediterranean Basins Conference and Exhibition, Nice, France, 25-28 September 1988.