Sedimentology, Stratigraphy and Structural Signatures of Eocene-Miocene Carbonates, North Coast, Jamaica: Regional Tectonic Implications and Hydrocarbon Exploration

Tankoo, Kevin R.; Mitchell, Simon F.; Brown, Lyndon

The Late Miocene transpressional event of the Northern Caribbean Plate Boundary is expressed onshore (North Coast Belt) and offshore Jamaica (Pedro Banks and Walton Basin) within the White Limestone Group as a series of anticlines and synclines; these structures were subsequently sheared. Geological mapping has revealed Late Miocene transpressional regimes; left lateral-normal faulting-folded successions expressed onshore for several kilometres. Offshore analogues on the Pedro Banks have been identified on 2-D seismic. Sedimentology, stratigraphy and petrophysical characteristics of the Late Eocene to Late Miocene White Limestone succession suggests four different facies; chalky marls/biomicrites (ChM); chalks with platy/nodular/bedded cherts (Chct); bioclastic lmsts (Bc); and grainstones (Gst). The facies exhibit distinct lithological and sedimentary character changes across the prominent east-west left lateral fault system (Duanvale Fault Zone); shallow water successions were found on the Clarendon Block whilst deeper water successions encompassed the north coast trough. The presence of Lepidocyclid assemblages and several milliolid species define an Eocene-Miocene age. Depositional environments show transition from platform carbonates, shelf edge, open shelf to lower shelf. Preliminary assessment of onshore and offshore well cores indicates good reservoir quality within the grainstone facies; overlying thick sequence of chalky clays provides good seals. Research suggests that elements for a carbonate play do exist and it is imperative to the current hydrocarbon exploration in Jamaica.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90163©2013AAPG 2013 Annual Convention and Exhibition, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, May 19-22, 2013