Numerical Stratigraphic Modeling of Climatic Controls on Basin-Scale Sedimentation

Abstract

Stratigraphic concepts interpret stratal architecture and sediment distribution as results of the interaction of sea level, sediment supply, and tectonism. Typically, these concepts emphasize changes in accommodation driven by sea level as a principal control on deposition with sediment supply held constant. Yet, sediment supply to a basin can vary over time due to autogenic processes, tectonism, and climate change. Additionally, the supply to a basin may be out of phase with sea-level changes. We use a numerical forward stratigraphic modeling program to generate basin-scale (shelf to abyssal plain) numerical end-member cases that examine the dynamic interaction of sediment supply cycles that are at a 0, 90, 180, or 270 degree phase relationship with sea-level amplitudes typical of icehouse and greenhouse conditions on the 100 kyr timescale (eccentricity). These numerical models quantify the impact of sea level and climate driven sediment supply on sediment distribution and preservation during long-term basin evolution. Our results demonstrate the utility of sediment transport modeling by testing concepts of basin fill typically applied to exploration areas.

AAPG Datapages/Search and Discovery Article #90216 ©2015 AAPG Annual Convention and Exhibition, Denver, CO., May 31 - June 3, 2015