Controls on Dolomitization in the Reef Facies of the Capitan Formation

Abstract

The degree of dolomitization in the reef facies of the Capitan Formation (Permian, Delaware basin, west Texas-New Mexico) was controlled by the amount of early marine cementation, which, in turn, was controlled by local depositional factors. Work on the Capitan forereef facies indicates dolomitization by refluxing penecontemporaneous backreef brines. These brines passed through the reef facies causing variable dolomitization. In the Guadalupe Mountains, the Capitan reef facies is well known for the extensive marine cementation that occluded most primary porosity and inhibited dolomitization. The rigid reef, however, fractured as it prograded over the compacting forereef facies. These fractures acted as channels for descending brines as evidenced by the dolomite halos commonly found on them. If marine cementation controlled dolomite distribution, what controlled marine cementation The Capitan reef in the Guadalupe Mountains is characterized by moderate progradation (5-7 km) and extensive marine cementation. Elsewhere, however, the Capitan prograded 2-3 times farther and generally lacks marine cementation. Apparently, rapid progradation results in rapid burial and short residence times for sediment near the sea floor and minimizes marine cementation. Therefore, although the Capitan of the Guadalupe Mountains has been described as a 'catch-up' carbonate margin, elsewhere it can be better described as amore » 'keep-up' margin. Probable causes for the varying progradation rates around the Delaware basin include variations in siliciclastic input, in carbonate production, and in subsidence rates.« less