Abstract: Phanerozoic Tectonic Evolution of Tarim Basin

Sun Zhaocai, Zhang Yigang

The tectonic evolution of Tarim Basin can be divided into two stages. In the first stage, there developed three Palaeozoic sequences (Pt3-O1, O2-3-D and C1-P2), the deposition of which were controlled by Palaeoasian Tectonic Domain. In the second stage, there appeared five Meso-Cenozoic sequences (T1-2, T3, J, K2-E and N1-Q), controlled by Tethys Sea Tectonic Domain. Both of the first sequence of each stage (Pt3-O1 and T1-2) are of typical rift-drift facies, overlain by flexural facies. The Palaeozoic tectonic style is characterized by basement-involved, back-thrusted uplifts and the pop-up held inbetween them. The main tectonic style since Late Triassic time has been thin-skin decoupling anticlines developed near the deep troughs in the foreland basins. Corresponding to the two above-mentioned stages, two major petroleum systems were formed. However, the early petroleum system was partly destroyed due to the marked overturn of the basin during Late Palaeozoic time.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90956©1995 AAPG International Convention and Exposition Meeting, Nice, France