--> Abstract: Jurassic and Cretaceous Source Rocks of the Arabian Plate: Links to Sequence Stratigraphy, Geodynamics and Palaeoclimate, by A. Brown, R.B. Davies, A. Godet, S. Holmes, D. Macgregor, M. Oxford, F. Schulze, P.R. Sharland, M.D. Simmons, O.E. Sutcliffe, A. Thomas, and J. Wyton; #90072 (2007)

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Jurassic and Cretaceous Source Rocks of the Arabian Plate: Links to Sequence Stratigraphy, Geodynamics and Palaeoclimate

A. Brown, R.B. Davies, A. Godet, S. Holmes, D. Macgregor, et al.
Neftex Petroleum Consultants Ltd, Abingdon, United Kingdom

Stratigraphic and geographic distribution of Mesozoic sources rocks in the Middle East is controlled by palaeogeographic, sequence stratigraphic and palaeoclimatic factors. Understanding how these factors interact can be useful in predicting source rocks in other basins and time periods.
Source rocks are developed in response to (i) production of, and (ii) preservation of organic matter. In Arabia, preservation is a key factor and requires the development of bottom-water anoxia. Intra-shelf basins with silling and limited oceanic recharge are volumetrically the most important means by which anoxia is developed in Arabia (Najmah, Hanifa, Madbi, Bab and Natih basins). Also important in developing anoxia is freshwater overhang in front of major delta systems (Khazdumi Formation). Interestingly, many source rock intervals are also coincident with the development of an expanded oxygen minimum zone which impinges on the shelf during global anoxic events. These intervals coincide with positive global palaeotemperature excursions and MFS from our Arabian Plate sequence stratigraphic model.
Our robust sequence stratigraphic framework permits the interpretation and correlation of all public-domain well and outcrop sections and hence detailed mapping and isopaching of source rock intervals (constrained by underlying tectonic elements) and their prediction away from areas of detailed study.

 

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90072 © 2007 AAPG and AAPG European Region Conference, Athens, Greece