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Recommended Sequence Stratigraphy Texts and Literature

Sequence Stratigraphy Textbooks

Texts
Stratigraphy
2-D Stratigraphy
Critical Reads for Sequence/Seismic Stratigraphy
Seismic Statigraphy - other references

Texts (top)

Coe, Angela, Dan Bosence, Kevin Church, Steve Flint, John Howell and Chris Wilson, In press, 2002
"The Sedimentary Record of Se-Level Change", Open University, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA, United Kingdom, 285p.

"A most complete description of sequence stratigraphy from the perspective of distance learning. Beautifully illustrated with numerous photographs and detailed correlated cross sections; for budding sequence stratigraphers, sedimentologists and petroleum geologists."


Einsele G., Ricken W., and Seilacher A., (editors), 1991,
"Cycles and events in stratigraphy"; Springer-Verlag, Berlin, Heidelberg, New York 1991. 955p.

Enjoy "reading this extraordinarily comprehensive text with it's many conceptual diagrams. It has an extensive list of references and numerous review articles on the topic of cycles in the stratigraphic record with a breadth of coverage and plethora of subject matter from so many viewpoints that the coverage is almost overwhelming. It considers topics of cyclic sedimentation ranging from the shallow marine to the deep to the lacustrian, from carbonates to clastics, and from turbidites to chemical precipitates."

Posamentier, Henry W., and George P. Allen, 1999,
"Siliciclastic Sequence Stratigraphy - Concepts and Applications", published by the Society of Economic Petrologists and Paleontologists, 216 pages.

"an in-depth understanding and unambiguous description of sequence stratigraphy as it pertains to siliciclastic depositional systems. The text uses in numerous beautifully colored and well-drawn diagrams and ties these to examples of both ancient and modern depositional settings. Though this book is probably targeted at an audience of specialists and mature students who have an interest in sequence stratigraphy, it should also appeal to earth scientists who is unfamiliar with the basic premises behind sequence stratigraphy and need a text that takes time to explain most of these in considerable detail."

VanWagoner, J.C., R. M. Mitchum, K. M. Campion, and V. D. Rahmanian 1990,
"Siliciclastic Sequence Stratigraphy in Well Logs, Cores, and Outcrops: Concepts for High-Resolution Correlation of Time and Facies", AAPG Methods in Exploration, No. 7, 55 pages,

"Thorough treatment of the sequence stratigraphy concept as viewed by researchers at Exxon. Beautifully illustrated with numerous foldouts and detailed correlation, for petroleum geologists, stratigraphers and sedimentologists."

VanWagoner, J.C., D. R. Taylor, D. Nummedal, D. C. Jennette, C. R. Jones and G. W. Riley, 1991
"Sequence Stratigraphy Applications to Shelf Sandstone Reservoirs: Outcrop to Subsurface Examples", AAPG Field Conference September 21-28 1991 Special Publications 257 p., ISBN#: 0891818154

"An expanded field guide with pro and con papers on the sequence stratigraphy concept, as well as exploration and production geology applications".

Wilgus, C.K., Hastings,B.S., Kendall, C.G.St.C., Posamentier H.W., Ross,C.A., & Van Wagoner, J.C., eds., 1988,
"Sea-Level Changes - an Integrated Approach", SEPM Spec. Pub. 42, pp 407

"The first collection of seminal papers that explain current concepts of sequence stratigraphy as they relate to changes in accommodation, sedimentary fill and erosion and are presented by researchers at Exxon and a rapidly growing cadre of petroleum geologists, stratigraphers and sedimentologists."

Assorted published papers on sequence stratigrahy (top)

Below are listed a series of papers selected by graduate students in the USC class GEOLOGY 716 - "Eustasy & Global Variations In Sequence Stratigraphy", for the Fall semester of 2002

The papers were selected on the basis of their description and use of the major surfaces that characterize high frequency parasequences. They provide illustrative examples of "TS" (Transgressive Surfaces); "mfs" (Maximum Flooding Surfaces); and SB (Sequence Boundaries). Papers include geologic interpretations, discussing depositional history, sea level variations and tectonics history etc. The attached reviews, and star ranking are intended to help other students to find articles that use sequence stratigraphy to unravel the depositional systems formed in a variety of geologic settings.

The Star ranking reflects the personal objectives of each student in the class to identify which of the articles they felt helped them to better understand sequence stratigraphy. This ranking is not a critique of the original intent of the authors that may have been to emphasize other geologic information.

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Quirk D. G., 1996, Base profile': a unifying concept in alluvial sequence stratigraphy, in High resolution sequence stratigraphy: innovations and applications, ed: Howell, John A., Aitken, John F., Geological Society special publication; London: Geological Society Special Publication, no. 104,374 p.

A new concept of "Base profile" is introduced in this paper. The term describes and explains the deposition and removal of fluvial sediments. The authors propose that this concept be used in analogous to the way the term base level is used in the sequence stratigraphy of coastal and marine strata. The concept clarifies some of the problems that are related to other depositional settings. The paper clearly describes the reasons of changes in accommodations space and the consequences in the basin of deposition. (Reviewed by Janiel Rivera Pinet - Sept 11, 2002)

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O'Byrne, C.J & Flint S., 1996, Interfluve sequence boundaries in the Grassy Member, Book Cliffs, Utah: criteria for recognition and implication for subsurface correlation, in High resolution sequence stratigraphy: innovations and applications, ed: Howell, John A., Aitken, John F., Geological Society special publication; London: Geological Society Special Publication, no. 201, 220 p.

In the last decade Book Cliffs, with its well-exposed and extensive outcrops, has been one of the most studied areas of ancient high-energy shorelines. High-resolution sequence stratigraphy is established as the best tool to subdivide and describe the development of the different formations of this geologic section. This paper is focused on the description of the Grassy Member and details the criteria used to differentiate the different depositional systems and the prediction and significance of stacked interfluve sequence boundaries. (Reviewed by Janiel Rivera Pinet - Sept 11, 2002).


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Jennette, D. C & Riley C. O., 1996, Influence of relative sea level on facies and reservoir geometry of the Middle Jurassic lower Brent Group, UK North Viking Graben, in High resolution sequence stratigraphy: innovations and applications, ed: Howell, John A., Aitken, John F., Geological Society special publication; London: Geological Society Special Publication, no. 104,374 p.

Sequence stratigraphy techniques are applied to determine the relative sea level history of an area. The position of the sequence boundaries, highstand systems tract and lowstand system tract are described and are based on the application of high frequency sequence stratigraphy techniques. (Reviewed by Janiel Rivera Pinet - Sept 11, 2002).


Pacht, J.A., L. Brooks, and F. Messa, Stratigraphy analysis of 3-D and 2-D seismic data to delineate porous carbonate debris flows in Permian strata along the northwestern margin of the Midland Basin, West Texas, U.S.A., in P. Weimer and T.L. Davis, eds, AAPG Studies in Geology No. 42 and SEG Geophysical Developments Series No. 5, AAPG/SEG, Tulsa, p. 161-170.

This paper delineates porous Leonardian carbonate debris flow deposits along the northwestern margin of the Midland Basin. Highstand, transgressive and lowstand systems tracts were identified in the strata that collected along this shelf. The paper contains very nice color figures that describe the multiple sequences of the study area. These latter are helpful in better understanding the concepts of sequence stratigraphy. (Reviewed by Janiel Rivera Pinet - Sept 11, 2002).


Marjanac, T., & Steel, R.J., 1997, Dunlin Group sequence stratigraphy in the Northern North Sea: a model for Cook Sandstone deposition, AAPG Bulletin, The American Association of Petroleum Geologist, Tulsa, Oklahoma, U.S.A., v. 81, No. 2, 276-292 pp.

Regressive and trangressive sequences of the Dunlin Group are rendered into three-dimensional (3-D) models. These model are based on structural contour maps of sequence boundaries, and unveil a paleotopography that controls the characteristics and distribution of the sandstones. Cross sections were made for each study area showing the location of the sequence boundaries and their characteristic erosional surfaces. An interesting model is proposed for each of the Cook Formation sandstone tongues in the northern North Sea. (Reviewed by Janiel Rivera Pinet - Sept 11, 2002).


Taylor, K. G., R.L. Gawthorpe & J.C. Van Wagoner, 1995, Stratigraphy control on laterally persistent cementation, Book Cliff, Utah, Journal of the Geological Society, London, v. 152, pp.225-228.

An invaluable study using carbonate sequence stratigraphy and proposes a direct relationship between laterally persistent cemented horizons and major marine flooding surfaces. Precipitation of cement is believed to have been initiated during times of non-deposition hiatus or reduced sediment accumulation associated with marine flooding events. (Reviewed by Janiel Rivera Pinet - Sept 11, 2002).


Catuneanu, O, & Biddulph, M. N., 2001, Sequence stratigraphy of the Vaal Reef facies associations in the Witwatersrand foredeep, South Africa, Sedimentary Geology 141-142, 113-130pp.

A discussion of the use of sequence stratigraphy concepts and their application to the Pre-Cambrian rock record. Facies analyses based on sequence stratigraphic methods are used to help to determine the origin and timing of the sedimentary fill. The main problem faced by this study was the lack of time control, a problem common to most case studies involving Pre-Cambrian sequences. (Reviewed by Janiel Rivera Pinet - Sept 11, 2002).


O'Byrne C. J. and Flint, S., 1995, Sequence, parasequence, and Intraparaquence architecture of the Grassy Member, Blackhawk Formation, Book Cliffs, Utah, U.S.A., Sequence stratigraphy of foreland basin deposits ed. Wagoner, J, C., and Bertram. AAPG Memoir 64, The American Association of Petroleum Geologist, Tulsa, Oklahoma, U.S.A., 225-255 pp.

A description of the internal architecture and stacking patterns of microtidal, wave dominated shoreface parasequence from the Book Cliffs in terms of their regional setting and sedimentary facies association. Importantly the paper provides details and highly schematic isometric models for each member or formation in the Book Cliffs. (Reviewed by Janiel Rivera Pinet - Sept 11, 2002).


Taylor, D.R. & Lovell R.W.W., 1995, High-Frequency Sequence Stratigraphy and Paleogeography of the Kenilworth Member, Blackhawk Formation, Book Cliffs, Utah, U.S.A., Sequence stratigraphy of foreland basin deposits ed. Wagoner, J, C., and Bertram. AAPG Memoir 64, The American Association of Petroleum Geologist, Tulsa, Oklahoma, U.S.A., 225-255 pp.

This paper's important contribution is a series of paleogeographic maps and the sequence stratigraphic framework provided for the Kenilworth Member of the Blackhawk Formation Interpretation of paleocurrents and the development of the basin-fill succession is another important problem discussed in this paper. (Reviewed by Janiel Rivera Pinet - Sept 11, 2002).


Hettinger R.D. & Shanley K.W.__?__, Detailed facies anatomy of transgressive and highstand systems tracks fro the Upper Cretaceous of Southern Utah, U.S.A. in Siliciclastic Sequence stratigraphy: Recent developments and applications; Memoir 58, The American Association of Petroleum Geologist, Tulsa, Oklahoma, U.S.A., 235-257 pp.

Two sequence boundaries are recognized by their erosional surfaces. The lower sequence boundary, referred to as the Calico sequence boundary, formed during the Turonian and early Conician. The second sequence boundary, referred as the A- sequence boundary, shows basinward facies overlain by estuarine strata, which are overlain by open -marine mudrock. Detailed descriptions of sedimentary facies and their stacking geometry are important contributions, but more important is the comparison with Book Cliffs exposures. (Reviewed by Janiel Rivera Pinet - Sept 11, 2002).


Yoshida, S., 2000, Sequence and facies architecture of the upper Blackhawk Formation and the Lower Castlegate Sandstone (Upper Cretaceous), Book Cliff, Utah U.S.A. Sedimentary Geology v. 136, 239-276 pp.

Stratigraphic sequences interpretations are common but there is a lack of models to illustrate the conclusions. One of the most important figures (page 242) is a resume of the lithostratigraphy and sequence stratigraphy nomenclature of the Blackhawk Formation and the Castle Sandstone used by previous worker and in the paper, and the conceptual model of crystal heterogeneity and its influence on locally enhanced vertical structural movement of the basement. (Reviewed by Janiel Rivera Pinet - Sept 11, 2002).


Heller, P.L., et al., 2001, Geomorphology and sequence stratigraphy due to slow and rapid base-level changes in an experimental subsiding basin(XES 96), AAPG Bulletin; The American Association of Petroleum Geologist, Tulsa, Oklahoma, U.S.A., v. 85, no. 5, 817-838 pp.

An experimental subsiding basin (XES) shows that the style of sequence boundaries allow differentiation between slow and fast falls in base-level. Similarly different erosional surfaces formed during slow and fast cycles and affected the location of the maximum flooding surface. An important conclusion is that the timing of maximum flooding is nearly synchronous with the end of a rapid sea level rise. (Reviewed by Janiel Rivera Pinet - Sept 11, 2002).


Aksu, A. E., R. N. Hiscott, D. Yasar, F. I. Isler, and S. Marsh, Seismic stratigraphy of Late Quaternary deposits from the southwestern Black Sea shelf: evidence for non-catastrophic variations in sea-level during the last ~10000 yr: Marine Geology, v. In Press, Uncorrected Proof.

Seismic lines of the margins of the Black Sea are interpreted using sequence stratigraphy providing evidence that contradicts the theory that this sea filled suddenly and catastrophically. The seismic is interpreted to show a normal stratigraphic section that apparently responded to "normally" fluctuating changes in sealevel. Good illustrations showing interpreted 2D seismic. (Reviewed by Paul Lake - Sept 11, 2002).


Buatois, L. A., M. G. Mangano, A. Alissa, and T. R. Carr, 2002, Sequence stratigraphic and sedimentologic significance of biogenic structures from a late Paleozoic marginal- to open-marine reservoir, Morrow Sandstone, subsurface of southwest Kansas, USA: Sedimentary Geology, v. 152, p. 99-132.

This sequence stratigraphic study used ichnofossils and lithology to define depositional settings. Clear illustrations show how well logs, ichnofossils and lithologic logs can be used to provide a sequence stratigraphic framework. (Reviewed by Paul Lake - Sept 11, 2002).


Catuneanu, O., 2002, Sequence stratigraphy of clastic systems: concepts, merits, and pitfalls: Journal of African Earth Sciences, v. 35, p. 1-43.

An excellent review of the basic concepts of sequence stratigraphy. Though lacking specific geologic examples the paper provides a clear exposition of the different approaches to sequence stratigraphy. These include discussions of such topics as - where should one place a sequence boundary. The illustrations and definitions help understand the basics of sequence stratigraphy for clastics. (Reviewed by Paul Lake - Sept 11, 2002).


Catuneanu, O., and P. G. Eriksson, 2002, Sequence stratigraphy of the Precambrian Rooihoogte-Timeball Hill rift succession, Transvaal Basin, South Africa: Sedimentary Geology, v. 147, p. 71-88.

Precambrian sequences developed during a long galcio-eustatic fall are differentiating from changes in accommodation produced by local rifting. Though the detailed geology of the region is obscured by the extreme age of the basin fill and its long diagenetic history, it is clearly demonstrated that even in the Precambrian the same basic processes found today occurred in the distant past. A paper that is exciting because it demonstrates that we are able to use sequence stratigraphy to better understand sedimentary geology even in the context of a Precambrian rift valley. (Reviewed by Paul Lake - Sept 11, 2002).


Eberli, G. P., F. S. Anselmetti, D. Kroon, T. Sato, and J. D. Wright, 2002, The chronostratigraphic significance of seismic reflections along the Bahamas Transect: Marine Geology, v. 185, p. 1-17.
A transect from the Bahamas to Florida studied to verify the assumption that seismic sequence boundaries are time equivalent and therefore useful chronostratigraphic markers. Biostratigraphy, magnetostratigraphy, and Sr isotopes, recovered from samples collected from wells drilled along this transect were used to correlate the seismic sequence boundaries with cores. The conclusion was that seismic sequence boundaries are excellent chronostratigraphic markers, and responded to changes in composition and rates of sedimentation, and diagenesis, caused by changes in sealevel even in deep water. The illustrations provide clear examples of sequence boundaries recognized in seismic and well data. (Reviewed by Paul Lake - Sept 11, 2002).


Hubbard, R. J., 1988, Age and Significance of Sequence Boundaries on Jurassic and Early Cretaceous Rifted Continental Margins: The American Association of Petroleum Geologists, v. 72, p. 49-72.

An argument is presented against the use of mega-sequence boundaries to correlate major phases of global basin fill along the rifted continental margins. This is because of the variables character of local tectonics and sediment supply. Good illustrations of interpreted seismic. (Reviewed by Paul Lake - Sept 11, 2002).


Hussner, H., J. Roessler, C. Betzler, R. Petschick, and M. Peinl, 2001, Testing 3D computer simulation of carbonate platform growth with REPRO: the Miocene Llucmajor carbonate platform (Mallorca): Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology, v. 175, p. 239-247.
A presentation of how accurately and effectively a carbonate platform can be simulated using the software package REPRO. The illustrations help understand the growth of a carbonate platform evolves and what the controls on this development might be. (Reviewed by Paul Lake - Sept 11, 2002).


Kuhlemann, J., and O. Kempf, 2002, Post-Eocene evolution of the North Alpine Foreland Basin and its response to Alpine tectonics: Sedimentary Geology, v. 152, p. 45-78.
An interpretation based on sequence stratigraphy of the evolution of the depositional settings of a foreland basin created by the Alps orogen. The illustrations provide excellent examples of paleogeographic maps through time. (Reviewed by Paul Lake - Sept 11, 2002).


Takano, O., 2002, Changes in depositional systems and sequences in response to basin evolution in a rifted and inverted basin: an example from the Neogene Niigata-Shin'etsu basin, Northern Fossa Magna, central Japan: Sedimentary Geology, v. 152, p. 79-97.
An interesting exposition on how sequences are primarily controlled by the tectonic history and sediment supply of the Niigata-Shin'etsu basin. Four major cycles produce a number of sequences. The first contains sequences that developed when accommodation was greater than accumulation and formed a retrogradational pattern. The second contains sequences that developed when accommodation was approximately equal to accumulation causing an agradational pattern. The third contain sequences that developed when subsidence had all but stopped while sediment supply remained constant producing a progradational pattern. Finally, the last phase was compressive folding and uplifting the area. In this phase deposition was restricted to synforms. Unfortunately the illustrations are for the most part unnecessarily complex. (Reviewed by Paul Lake - Sept 11, 2002).


Taylor, S. P., and B. W. Sellwood, 2002, The context of lowstand events in the Kimmeridgian (Late Jurassic) sequence stratigraphic evolution of the Wessex-Weald Basin, Southern England: Sedimentary Geology, v. 151, p. 89-106.

13 sedimentary sequences are described and illustrated as accumulating during the Late Jurassic. Their character is believed to have been primarily controlled by eustasy and tectonics. In fact the tectonics operating in this basin locally obscure the effects of changes in sealevel that are evident elsewhere. Illustrations provide good examples of how to make a sequence stratigraphic interpretation of a basin using well logs. (Reviewed by Paul Lake - Sept 11, 2002).


Yang, W., and M. A. Kominz, Characteristics, stratigraphic architecture, and time framework of multi-order mixed siliciclastic and carbonate depositional sequences, outcropping Cisco Group (Late Pennsylvanian and Early Permian), Eastern Shelf, north-central Texas, USA: Sedimentary Geology, v. In Press, Uncorrected Proof.
A clear description of how lithology, depositional setting and its history can be determined from well log interpretations. The Cisco Group on the Eastern Shelf of the Midland Basin is determined to be composed of fluvial, deltaic, shelf, shelf-margin, and slope-to-basin carbonates and siliciclastic rocks. The sequences are subdivided into five types on the basis of their principle lithofacies, and exhibit variable magnitude of facies shift corresponding to variable extents of marine transgression on the shelf. The sequence stacking patterns and their regional persistence suggest a three-level sequence hierarchy controlled by eustasy, whereas local and regional changes in lithology, thickness, and sequence type, magnitude, and absence were controlled by interplay of eustasy, differential shelf subsidence, depositional topography, and pattern of siliciclastic supply. Illustrations are good and are extremely useful to understanding the philosophy of high frequency sequence stratigraphy. (Reviewed by Paul Lake - Sept 11, 2002).


Yoshida, S., 2000, Sequence and facies architecture of the upper Blackhawk Formation and the Lower Castlegate Sandstone (Upper Cretaceous), Book Cliffs, Utah, USA: Sedimentary Geology, v. 136, p. 239-276.

A description of the details of sequences and parasequences contained in the Castlegate Formation sandstone. The illustrations clearly show how parasequences can be identified and how to interpret their depositional setting. (Reviewed by Paul Lake - Sept 11, 2002).


Cant, D.J., 1995, Sequence Stratigraphy analysis of individual depositional successions: effects of marine/nonmarine sediment partitioning and longitudinal sediment transport, Mannville Group, Alberta foreland basin, Canada, AAPG Bulletin v. 79, no. 5, pp. 749-762.

A single member of a stratigraphic unit in Canada was analyzed to better understand the shoreline facies relationships of reservoir units. The study used gamma ray logs to identify the sequence boundaries and transgressive surfaces. Two sequences were described and related to a two relative sea level drops and rises. The analysis was only made in two dimensions and along a single profile. This means that the analysis is skewed towards a dip relationship from basin to shore. Excellent illustration showing the relationship of facies to relative sea level changes. (Reviewed by Eric Lars Anderson - Sept 11, 2002).

Smith, G.J. and Jacobi, R.D., 2001, Tectonic and eustatic signals in the sequence stratigraphy of the Upper Devonian Canadaway Group, New York state. AAPG Bulletin v. 85, no. 2, pp. 325-357.

Outcrops (1200 measured sections) were used to subdivide the Upper Devonian Canadaway Group into 3 sequences. The lithofacies and sequences were used to validate and/or refine a relative sea level curve for the area. Much of the effects of the sea level change observed for this stratigraphic interval was related to a "forced" sea level changes induced both be movement of fault blocks and eustasy. The focus is on the sedimentlogical character of the rock and what significance this with respect to relative sea level (rising, steady, falling). The discussion the refinement to the sea level curves is interesting, particularly how precisely the relative sea level for a certain area can be defined. (Reviewed by Eric Lars Anderson - Sept 11, 2002).

Mahboubi, a., Moussavi-Harami, R., Lasemi, Y., and R.L. Brenner, 2000, Sequence Stratigraphy and sea level history of the upper Paleocene strata in the Kopet-Dagh basin, northeastern Iran. AAPG Bulletin v. 85, no. 5, pp. 839-859.

The stratigraphy and processes responsible for the Paleocene sequences of a basin in the northeastern part of Iran were related to a sea level history and led on to an analysis of the petroleum potential for this interval. Most of the analysis came from outcrops, and identified lithofacies and depositional sequence boundaries. The deposits were separated into 3 distinct third order sequences based on these boundaries. The paleoenvironment determined from the lithofacies analysis was related to TST, HST and LST. The boundaries were attributed to sea level changes induced by tectonic subsidence and sediment loading. The article was well written and. fits the experience of the reviewer from the perspective that the article was developed: looking at outcrops, developing some paleoenvironmental interpretations and relating these to sea level change (transgressing vs. regressing sea level). It was difficult to discern much from the photos of the rocks, since they were in black and white. The illustrations were a little 'amateurish' and could have been better; though they did illustrate the point. (Reviewed by Eric Lars Anderson - Sept 11, 2002).

Flint, S., Knight, S. and Tillbrook, A., 1998, Application of High-Resolution Sequence Stratigraphy to Northwest Hutton Field, Northern North Sea: Implications for Management of a Mature Brent Group Field. AAPG Bulletin v. 82, no. 7, pp. 1416-1436.

High resolution sequence stratigraphy was used to characterize the connectivity, distribution and reservoir qualities of sandstones in the North Sea. A sequence stratigraphic framework was developed using well log characteristics. Depositional settings and system tracts were tools for predicting the oil potential for an interval. Each sequence was described in terms of both their depositional setting as well as their relationship to the relative sea level changes that occurred during their deposition. Some very good illustrations are included in the article, showing paleogeography, sequence stratigraphy and lithology. (Reviewed by Eric Lars Anderson - Sept 11, 2002).

Dixon, B.T., and Weimer, P., 1998, Sequence Stratigraphy and Depositional History of the Eastern Mississippi Fan (Pleistocene), Northeastern Deep Gulf of Mexico. AAPG Bulletin v. 82, no. 6, pp.1207-1232.

The seismic reflection data from a sequence of Pleistocene strata in the Eastern Mississippi Fan, where it lies between the Western Mississippi Fan (current delta deposition) and the Florida Escarpment was analyzed. The intent was to find analogs with the Western Mississippi Fan and other mud dominated turbidite fans reservoirs and document the sequences developed within the fan. Isopach maps and cross-sections were produced from the seismic data and characterized each of the depositional facies. From these a depositional model was developed. The only surfaces used in this analysis were sequence boundaries. The strata were divided into eight seismic sequences. Little to no use was made of mfs's or TSs, though some mention was made of condensed sections, which were believed be partially eroded sections. The illustrations, specifically the seismic sections, were a little vague; but that may be a bias from the scale of the sections. The fact that an un-interpreted example of each section was provided was most helpful. (Reviewed by Eric Lars Anderson - Sept 11, 2002).

Lemons, D.R. and Chan, M.A., 1999, Facies Architecture and Sequence Stratigraphy of Fine-Grained Lacustrine Deltas along the Eastern Margin of Late Pleistocene Lake Bonneville, Northern Utah and Southern Idaho. AAPG Bulletin v. 83, no. 4, pp. 635-665.

The lithofacies of outcrops in Utah was used to compare the effects of changes in base level (lake level), tectonics and sediment supply on facies character, sequence stratigraphy and reservoir quality. It was concluded that in this lucustrine delta setting the predominant factor in determining the character of the sequence stratigraphy was basin physiography (ramp length and accommodation space). The lithofacies, more specifically the environment of deposition, was used to develop a relative lake level curve. Much of the work involved the development of the LST of the deltas, though the HST and TST played an important role in the complete development of the framework. This article is interesting because it emphasizes that the sequences being observed in sediment packages that reflect changes in base level, be they lake or 'marine' sediments. The diagrams showing the paleogeography with the development of the system tracts are particularly effective. (Reviewed by Eric Lars Anderson - Sept 11, 2002).

Tye, R.S. and others, 1999, Geology and stratigraphy of fluio-deltaic deposition in the Ivishak Formation: applications for development of Prudhoe Bay Field, Alaska. AAPG Bulletin v. 83, no. 2, pp. 1588-1623.

A sequence stratigraphic framework was developed and applied to the Alaskan Ivishak Formation, which had a previously developed lithostratigraphy. The purpose was to analyze the reservoir quality and hydrocarbon availability in the unit, so as to increase reserves found in the area. Wells and bore-hole cores were used to create the framework, using the sedimentary facies in conjunction with depositional settings and sea level position. Sequence boundaries and transgressive surfaces were the major sequence stratigraphic 'units' used for the interpretation. The paper provided an excellent chart that illustrated stratigraphic zonations determined from the gamma ray character, lithofacies and depositional character, all in one nice package. Unfortunately the paper didn't summarize how each facies/sequence fits into the relative sea level rise/fall of the region. (Reviewed by Eric Lars Anderson - Sept 11, 2002).


Strecker, U., Steidtmann, J.R. and Smithson, S.B., 1999, A conceptual tectono-stratigraphic model for seismic facies migrations in a fluvio-lacustrine extensional basin. AAPG Bulletin v. 83, no. 1, pp. 43-61.

A tectonostratigraphic model was applied to a specific geologic setting, using real data to test the model. Seismic reflection data enabled the establishment of a sequence stratigraphic framework, defining sequence boundaries, MFSs, TSTs, HSTs and LSTs. These systems were related to the relative lake level fluctuations caused by tectonism and lake restoration. Four sequences were defined using the reflection termination patterns from the seismic reflection data. Three stages of lake level were used to explain the development of the system tracts: fall, rise and standstill stages. LSTs developed during fall stages and TSTs and HSTs formed during rise and standstill respectively. This is an interesting approach that uses sequence stratigraphy and recognition of relative water levels to analyze the tectonic and "eustactic" effects on deposition. (Reviewed by Eric Lars Anderson - Sept 11, 2002).


Caplan, M.L. and Moslow, T.F., 1999, Depositional origin and facies variability of a middle Triassic barrier island complex, Peejay Field, northeastern British Columbia. AAPG Bulletin v. 83, no. 1, pp. 128-154.

A depositional framework was established for a barrier island complex and its reservoir potential using the principles of sequence stratigraphy. The sequences were recognized from wells and bore hole cores. Four regressive sequences were recognized. Along with the boundaries, MFSs were placed based on lithologic changes in the wells and Gamma ray characteristics (dramatic increase in gamma ray log, coinciding with shaly units). (Reviewed by Eric Lars Anderson - Sept 11, 2002).

Eichenseer, H.T., Walgenwitz, F.R. and Biondi, P.J., 1999, Stratigraphic control on facies and diagenesis of dolomitized oolitic siliciclastic ramp sequences (Pinda Group, Albian, Offshore Angola). AAPG Bulletin v. 83, no. 11, pp. 1729-1758.

High frequency sequence stratigraphy was used to analyze the reservoir quality of a carbonate ramp. This is integrated with carbonate geochemistry so as to determine the diagenetic history of the carbonate reservoirs. The sequence stratigraphy was developed using seismic (?) and outcrop data (?) to position the sequence boundaries, MFSs, RSTs and TSTs. The lithology and sequences were used to reconstruct the area prior to ramp slumping. The sequence stratigraphy is interesting though most of the article deals with the diagenesis of the carbonates. (Reviewed by Eric Lars Anderson - Sept 11, 2002).

Pinous, O.V., Karagodin, Y.N., Ershov, S.V. and Sahagian, D.L., 1999, Sequence stratigraphy, facies and sea level change of the Hauterivian productive complex, Priobskoe oil field (west Siberia). AAPG Bulletin v. 83, no. 6, pp. 972-989.

Seismic reflection data, wire line data and biostratigraphy were used to establish sequences within an oil-producing unit in Siberia. Two sequences were established using the conformable surfaces compared to unconformable surfaces from shoreward deposits. The system tract framework (HST, LST and TST) was developed both from nature of the parasequences (onlapping, downlapping etc) and SP/Resistivity log responses. Distribution maps of the potential reservoirs were created, through the various tracts of the two sequences. This paper clearly described the development of various sequence stratigraphic surfaces, basing this on both well and seismic characteristics. The illustrations are very informative. (Reviewed by Eric Lars Anderson - Sept 11, 2002).


Westphal, H. and Aigner, T., 1997, Seismic stratigraphy and subsidence analysis in the Barrow-Dampier subbasin, Northwest Australia, AAPG Bulletin v. 81, no. 10, pp. 1721-1749.

13 sequences were identified through the use of marine seismic data and well logs. These sequences are related to sea level changes that were mainly the result of eustatic or tectonic events, though some were a result of subsidence. Most of these sequences are second order. Using the seismic data, HST, TST, LST and SB were identified and used to establish the relative sea level fluctuations for the interval. Chronostratigraphic charts were developed, that established the relationship of the facies changes to the sequences. The analysis of the data was used to create a basin analysis, relating the depositional response to the sea level changes from the various sources. The paper is very thorough, combining wells and seismic data. The authors presented a clear description of the strata in each sequence, and how it relates to sea level and tectonics of the area at that time. Some of the illustrations would definitely be better at a larger scale. (Reviewed by Eric Lars Anderson - Sept 11, 2002).


Williams, T., S.A. Graham, and K.N. Constenius, 1998, Recognition of a Santonian submarine canyon, great valley group, Sacramento basin, California: Implications for petroleum exploration and sequence stratigraphy of deep marine strata: AAPG Bulletin, v. 82/8, p. 1575-1594.

Excellent example of a non-classical Posamentier and Vail sequence stratigraphy model. Rather than eustatic change, regional tectonism and sediment supply are believed to have controlled the deposition of submarine canyon facies. Sequence stratigraphy analysis with logs, biostratigraphy, and seismic were combined to interpret not only the dimensions of the canyon but also the reconstruction of its depositional settings. Based on the analysis of the data the sequence boundary related to canyon incision is located not at the base of coarse-grained Lowstand-fan deposits, as might be expected from sequence stratigraphy models for deep-marine strata, but instead at the base of fine-grained mudstone turbidites. Since no details are given of the methodology and the readers are assumed to know more than is explained, the reviewer felt there might be other possible explanations for how this happened. (Reviewed by Josgre Salazar - Sept 11, 2002).


Galloway, W.E., 1989, Genetic stratigraphic sequences in basin analysis I: Architecture and genesis of flooding-surface bounded depositional units: AAPG Bulletin, v. 73/2, p. 125-142.

This classic paper describes "genetic sequence stratigraphy" and how it provides a better preservation of the stratigraphic integrity of three-dimensional depositional systems than the use of the widespread development of subaerial erosion surfaces (caused by eustatic falls of sea levels) to define sequence boundaries. Transgressive cycles with their corresponding flooding surfaces provides readily recognizable, regionally correlative, easily and accurately datable, and robust sequence boundaries. It is the opinion of the reviewer is that genetic sequence stratigraphy is the best tool for the analysis of marine basin margins where large transgressive cycles have occurred. This is because widespread flooding events are easy to recognize and define within sequences based on these large marine events. (Reviewed by Josgre Salazar - Sept 11, 2002).


Galloway, W.E., 1989, Genetic stratigraphic sequences in basin analysis II: Application to Northwest Gulf of Mexico Cenozoic basin: AAPG Bulletin, v. 73/2, p. 143-154.

A good example of the applicability of genetic sequence stratigraphy to a specific area. The resultant stratigraphic sequences are bounded by maximum flooding-surfaces associated subaerial and transgressive non-depositional or erosional surfaces, and syndepositional structural discontinuities. The interplay between sediment supply, subsidence, and eustatic sea level change characterized the dynamics of the depositional setting in this area. (Reviewed by Josgre Salazar - Sept 11, 2002).


Boote, D.R., and Robert B. Kirk, 1989, Depositional wedge cycles on evolving plate margin, western and northwestern Australia: AAPG Bulletin, v. 73/2, p. 216-243.

The cycles within the sedimentary wedges of western and northwestern Australia are interpreted to have tectonostratigraphic origin. A data set of seismic and wells were used to establish the role of tectonostratigraphy and the development of the five identified wedge cycles. These are bounded by significant depositional breaks, each correlating with a major tectonic event along the evolving margin. These major tectonic events controlled the style and lateral extent of the depositional system of each cycle. (Reviewed by Josgre Salazar - Sept 11, 2002).


Marjanac T., and Ronald J. Steel, 1997, Dulin group sequence stratigraphy in the northern North Sea: A model for cook sandstone deposition: AAPG Bulletin, v. 81/2, p. 276-292.

Sequence stratigraphy concepts are applied to outline the Dulin Group in the North Sea. This late lower Jurassic Group is composed from younger to older of the Drake Formation, Cook Formation, and Amundsen Formation.
Based on well and core analysis the following were identified:
- Sequence boundaries at the base of Johansen Formation and within the Cook Formation, representing the bottoms of incised valleys that truncate the underlying shoreface deposits.
- Regressive of marine erosion at the base of cook Formation.
- Transgressive tidal channels surfaces within the Cook Formation.
- Wave ravinement surfaces.
3D paleotopography maps were constructed for the base of the Group derived from isopach maps that were not provided. The reviewer felt that the quantity of erosion was calculated from the wells. He also felt the maps should have had scales and were difficult to read. It was implied that the maps described the distribution of the sand but they failed to do this. (Reviewed by Josgre Salazar - Sept 11, 2002).


Hodgetts D., J. Imber, C. Childs, S. Flint, J. Howell, J. Kavanagh, P. Nell, and J. Walsh, Sequence stratigraphic responses to shoreline-perpendicular growth faulting in shallow marine reservoirs of the Champion field, offshore Brunei Darussalam, South China Sea: AAPG Bulletin, v. 85/3, p. 433-457.

A simple approach is used to describe the sedimentary facies of this field using a well-defined sequence stratigraphic analysis. The parasequence correlation was based on mfs, within a shallow marine deltaic setting. However no mention is made of synthetic seismograms being used to tie wells and seismic, no mention is made of seismic resolution, and seismic attributes are neglected. Similarly seismic chronosurfaces are apparently unrelated to the use of biostratigraphy. In short the seismic data is misused when it definitively could have contributed better to the sequence stratigraphy of the area. (Reviewed by Josgre Salazar - Sept 11, 2002).


Alissa A., and Christopher G. Kendall, 2002, Seismic morphology, a tool for high resolution seismic sequence stratigraphy: case of study, the middle upper Miocene successions, CSO310, South Marsh Island, offshore Louisiana.

A technique based on the analysis of flattened seismic chronosurfaces is used to outline the morphology of the four order sequences within the upper middle Miocene SMI in Louisiana. This enabled to identification of incised filled valleys, slope fans, lowstand deltas and strandplain sand facies identified as part of Lowstand and Transgressive cycles. This paper very effectively combines 3D seismic, wells, biostratigraphy and to explain the evolution of the sedimentary facies within the interval of study. (Reviewed by Josgre Salazar - Sept 11, 2002).


http://www.beg.utexas.edu/resprog/sgr/summary.htm

The Economical Bureau in Texas describes an integrated project for offshore Louisiana that combines geology, geophysics and petroleum engineering. The intent is to improve the gas exploitation in the area by defining at a very detailed scale the structural and stratigraphic features of the area. Using 3D seismic, well logs, biostratigraphy, etc the sequence stratigraphy of the Miocene series, is defined using chronosurfaces based of biostratigraphy and logs patterns to interpret the sequence within the wells and provide a structural framework. (Reviewed by Josgre Salazar - Sept 11, 2002).


http://www-sst.unil.ch/research/seismic/G_Mexico.htm
The Université de Lausanne in Swiss use an integration of 3D seismic, well logs, and byostratigraphy to explain the sequence stratigraphy of the late Miocene, Pliocene successions as well as the structural geology of a portion of the Gulf of Mexico. Chronosurfaces based on the well logs and biostratigraphy established surfaces that were interpreted by generating flattened seismic chronosurfaces and using the amplitude as guide to make the analysis over the flattened surfaces. In general this is an excellent study but it could be improved by adding further geophysical analysis of the data. (Reviewed by Josgre Salazar - Sept 11, 2002).

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