--> Abstract: High Resolution Sequence Stratigraphic Correlation of Upper Cretaceous Strata, Eastern Gulf Coastal Plain, USA, by E. A. Mancini and X. Gan; #90942 (1997).

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Abstract: High Resolution Sequence Stratigraphic Correlation of Upper Cretaceous Strata, Eastern Gulf Coastal Plain, USA

MANCINI, ERNEST A., and XUEHONG GAN

Three unconformity-bounded depositional sequences of 2 to 11 million years in duration can be defined and mapped in Upper Cretaceous (Santonian-Maastrichtian) strata of the eastern Gulf Coastal Plain of the United States. These genetic sequences have characteristic systems tracts and distinct physical defining surfaces. The Upper Cretaceous strata in this basin can be mapped and correlated utilizing an integrated lithostratigraphic, biostratigraphic, and sequence stratigraphic approach. Higher order cycles, or parasequences, are recognizable in these strata and can be correlated locally and regionally using distinctive lithologies and their fossil content. Although these parasequences lack distinct bounding surfaces and component systems tracts, they are unique and traceable over reasonable distances. Foraminiferal trends are particularly useful in correlating these cycles. In each of the three genetic depositional sequences, strata above the maximum flooding interval exhibit a significant and progressive decrease in planktonic foraminifera. High counts of planktonic foraminifera are also characteristic of the initial flooding event in these marine siliciclastic and carbonate systems. Changes in benthic foraminiferal assemblages occur within a given depositional sequence. The changes in predominant benthic taxa, diversity, and richness can be used locally and regionally to correlate higher order cycles. The mechanism driving the development of the parasequences appears to be a combination of the episodic introduction of siliciclastic sediment into the area and the cyclicity of carbonate production. Further understanding of the factors controlling Upper Cretaceous cyclicity could result in a refined correlation method for potential global interbasin correlation.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90942©1997 AAPG International Conference and Exhibition, Vienna, Austria